If you have an aging loved one, it can be difficult to know when the time has come for them to start receiving professional caregiver services. It's often hard to tell whether they just need a little help with day-to-day tasks or if they need more intensive care, but if you understand some common signs, you can find them the help they need.

How to Tell If Your Loved One Needs a Caregiver 

1. Difficulty With Activities

If your loved one is struggling to do things they used to do easily, such as cooking meals or getting dressed, it might be time to get some help. Professional caregivers can assist with these tasks and make sure the person you care about is safe, comfortable, and enjoys a good quality of life.

2. Increased Forgetfulness

As the body ages, it's normal for the mind to become forgetful. Additional illnesses such as Alzheimer's or dementia can make it extra difficult for loved ones to remember completing their tasks. A caregiver can run errands when your loved one forgets to pick something up or remind the senior to eat their meals at certain times. 

3. Lack of Grooming  

When visiting your loved one at home, look for signs that their grooming or hygiene habits have declined. Look for an overgrown beard, food particles building up on their gums and teeth, bad breath, strong body odors, lack of bathing, and matted or tangled hair. These signs indicate that your loved one is having difficulty maintaining their appearance and hygiene. A caregiver is trained to take care of these tasks and they'll help your loved one stay comfortable.  

4. Loneliness

Losing contact with friends can lead to isolation and loneliness. Seniors can also experience physical or cognitive decline, which can make social interaction more difficult. Caregivers can provide much-needed companionship for seniors who are socially isolated or lonely by playing board games, watching movies, or even arranging a walk around the neighborhood. 

If you or a loved one needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL), which includes meal preparation, light housekeeping, toileting and bathing, trust the professionals at Deer Valley Home Health Services in St. Louis, MO. There’s also the option of arranging for private duty nurse visits, if you do not qualify for Medicaid. Call (314) 355-3679 to discuss your specific needs, or visit them online to learn more about their services.