Long-term care provides health and personal services to individuals who are unable to perform a variety of essential duties on their own. While many long-term care providers operate out of assisted living facilities and long-term care hospitals, some individuals may be homebound or simply desire to receive care from the comfort of their own homes.
Regardless of where the care is given, long-term care can provide several benefits for an individual that needs some extra help getting along with their life. If you suspect that your loved one may require long-term care, here’s a closer look at the signs that you’re correct, and why in-home healthcare could be the best possible choice for your family.
1. Increased or Recent Accidents
Falls are unfortunately a common incident among the elderly and those recovering from extensive surgery. These incidents, especially if they are recurring, are high indicators that in-home help may be necessary.
Keep in mind that many of these falls may occur out of sight, so be mindful of new bruises or scratches appearing on your loved one’s body.
2. Increased Medical Needs
If an individual is living with a progressive physical or cognitive condition, they may eventually require medical assistance that goes beyond the care that an unlicensed provider can offer.
Some examples of increased medical needs that a long-term in-home provider can assist with include the following:
- Medical care that is difficult to provide
- The use of medical equipment (i.e. oxygen tanks, adjustable beds, wheelchairs, etc.)
- Medication distribution, and more.
3. Poor Hygiene
An individual’s appearance can be a clear sign that they are experiencing difficulties with daily care. Of course, most people no matter their age or condition will try to present a clean face to the world, however, issues like body odor, unkempt appearances, or even dramatic shifts in weight are all signs that it’s time for a professional to step in.
When poor hygiene arises, it is typically the result of a larger medical problem:
- Physical difficulty bathing
- Depression
- Progression of a neurological illness
A long-term healthcare professional can help you and your family navigate these issues and ensure that your loved one is cared for and always clean and well-groomed.
4. Difficulty With Housekeeping
Much like personal hygiene, an untidy house from someone who is used to maintaining their own home should be a red flag that there are physical or cognitive issues at hand.
Some of the most common signs around the home that indicate the need for a home health professional can be:
- Failure to pay bills
- Bugs
- Moldy or old food left out
- Musty towels
- Re-wearing the same outfit
- Torn clothing
- General clutter
- Stored up takeout boxes and containers
5. Family Caregiver Burnout
Sometimes it’s the caregivers themselves that need help. Caring for an individual around the clock can take a toll on someone new to the position and can lead to mistakes that put the individual under care at risk.
A long-term care specialist can help take some of the weight off of a caregiver’s shoulders and ensure that an individual’s health and safety needs are properly met.
Keep Your Loved Ones Comfortable at Home With Angel Home Healthcare
If you are the family caregiver of a homebound individual who requires more assistance than you are qualified to provide, Angel Home Healthcare has a helping hand to lend you. We are a compassionate, dependable, and licensed team of home healthcare professionals.
Trust us to restore your loved one’s quality of life from the comfort of their own home. From meal prepping to Hygenic help and transportation assistance, Angel Home Healthcare is here for your family. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to schedule your in-home consultation.
