Many seniors choose to age in place rather than relocating to a retirement home or assisted living community. However, if they live alone, they may need help caring for themselves and completing essential household tasks. Fortunately, home health aides can help them maintain independence as well as comfort, health, and safety. Here are three signs your loved one could benefit from senior services. 

How to Tell When Your Senior Needs a Home Health Aide 

1. Trouble Performing Household Tasks 

Your senior loved one may find it difficult to manage day-to-day activities. This may include bathing, dressing, grooming, using the restroom, laundry, cooking, cleaning, and eating.

You may notice spoiled food in the refrigerator or cupboards, piles of dirty laundry, a messy home, or stacks of unopened mail. A caregiver can help with the essential activities of daily living, as well as home health care needs. 

2. Declining Mental or Physical Function 

Many people experience a cognitive and physical decline with age, which may impede memory and make it difficult for them to make decisions. You might find they forget to do simple tasks, such as taking their medications or eating, or they may forget appointments or names.

They may also have trouble moving from one place to another, needing to hold onto walls or doorways. Seniors with such difficulties may be more vulnerable to scam artists and injuries. A home health aide can provide the assistance they need to live safely and healthy. 

3. Poor Personal Hygiene 

For various reasons, including dementia, pain, or mobility restrictions, seniors may find personal hygiene challenging. They may forego bathing for fear of slipping and falling in the bath, or they may develop urinary tract infections from incontinence issues.

Often, the combination can produce a strong odor. You may also notice their hair is dirty and unwashed and they wear the same clothes several days in a row. 

If you are a St. Louis, MO, resident in need of senior services, turn to Angel’s Care Home Health Services. Since 1996, this elderly care agency has partnered families with compassionate, experienced home health aides and nurses. Call (314) 381-0321 to speak with a friendly team member to discuss how they can help your elderly loved one. Or visit the website to learn more about the agency and the services they provide.