How to Know If Your Loved One Needs Home Care

Watching a loved one age or struggle with daily tasks can be emotionally challenging. You want them to maintain independence, but also want to make sure they’re safe, healthy, and supported. If you’re unsure whether it’s time to consider home care, you’re not alone, many families face this question.

7 Signs It May Be Time for Home Care

Here are some of the most common signs that indicate your loved one may benefit from home care. If you’re seeing several of these, home care could be a helpful solution to bring relief to the whole family:

1. Difficulty with Daily Tasks (ADLs)

Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) include:

• Bathing

• Dressing

• Eating

• Using the bathroom

• Moving around the house

If your loved one is skipping showers, wearing the same clothes for days, or struggling to get out of bed safely, it's a strong sign they may need additional support.

2. Memory Problems or Confusion

If your loved one is:

• Repeating themselves often

• Getting lost in familiar places

• Missing appointments or forgetting to take medication

These could be early signs of cognitive decline or dementia. A caregiver can help keep routines on track and ensure safety.

3. Poor Personal Hygiene or Housekeeping

If you notice:

• Unwashed dishes piling up

• Spoiled food in the fridge

• They are wearing dirty clothes

• Neglecting grooming or dental care

This may signal physical limitations, cognitive challenges, or even depression — all of which can be supported with in-home care.

4. Changes in Weight, Mood, or Energy

If your loved one experiences:

• Sudden weight loss or gain

• Withdrawn behavior or loss of interest in hobbies

• Unexplained fatigue

These changes might point to deeper health issues that need monitoring and support.

5. Increased Risk of Falls or Accidents

If your loved one is having:

• Trouble with balance

• Unexplained bruises

• Difficulty getting up from chairs or out of bed

Falls are one of the leading causes of injury in older adults. A caregiver can help reduce risk with assistance and home safety improvements.

6. Missed Medications

If your loved one is:

• Skipping doses

• Taking too much

• Confusion about prescriptions

This can lead to serious health complications. Home care aides can assist with medication reminders and management.

7. Caregiver Burnout in the Family

If you or another family member are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or emotionally drained from providing care, it’s time to consider outside help. Home care isn’t just for the person receiving it — it’s also support for the entire family.

What Home Care Can Provide

Home care can be customized to your loved one’s needs, including:

• Personal care (bathing, grooming, dressing)

• Medication reminders

• Light housekeeping and meal preparation

• Companionship and social support

• Transportation to appointments

• Help with mobility and fall prevention

Whether it’s a few hours a week or full-time assistance, home care helps your loved one stay safe, independent, and comfortable in their own home.

Is It Time to Talk About Home Care?

Here are a few questions to ask yourself:

• Is your loved one safe living alone?

• Are their physical or mental needs increasing?

• Are you spending more time caring for them than before?

• Do you worry about them when you’re not around?

If the answer to any of these is yes, it might be time to explore your options.

We're Here to Help

You don’t have to make this decision alone. At Friendly Care, we offer free consultations to help you determine the level of care your loved one needs and how we can best support them.

Get a free consultation today, our care team will help you assess your loved one’s needs and recommend a personalized plan that fits your family.

Call us at (860) 382-4625 Or Contact Us Online →