What Are the Signs That Seniors in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties Need Assisted Living Home Care?
It’s important for families in Santa Cruz, Scotts Valley, Marina and surrounding areas in California to recognize signs that their senior loved ones need help with everyday tasks so they can get the assisted living home care services they need
In Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties in California, adult children are facing difficult decisions about their parents’ diminished quality of life due to aging. They wonder whether their mom or dad is safe and comfortable at home.
Acknowledging that your parents need help at home is a significant first step. Although, how will you know if they need more support such as assisted living home care?
Watch out for these warning signs that professional care from a reliable agency like Visiting Angels Central Coast might be needed.
When to Consider Assisted Living Home Care
If you see sudden changes in your parents’ appearance, behavior or environment that concern you, it’s time to consider in-home senior care. The signs may be subtle at first.
When you’re with your parents, consider the following signs:
- Poor personal hygiene or a disheveled appearance
Are your parents maintaining their usual standard of cleanliness? Pay attention to signs they’re not bathing, brushing their teeth, combing their hair or washing their clothing regularly. - A messy, cluttered living space
A cluttered home can be a sign of physical or cognitive difficulties. Take note if your parents’ home is messier than usual or their housekeeping routine is slipping. - Spoiled food in the refrigerator or little food at all
Check the fridge and cupboards to see if your parents have fresh, nutritious food. If the food is expired or the cupboards are bare, they may not be eating regular meals. - Unpaid bills and other questionable financial choices
Are your parents on top of their finances or are they neglecting essential expenses? Look for unopened bills or unpaid utility bills. Take note if they mention any recent investments, loans or purchases that seem suspect or out of character. - Significant changes in their health or mobility
Can your parents move around easily? Do they keep up with their treatments and medications for chronic conditions? Look for expired or unopened medications and symptoms that their health is getting worse. - Reserved demeanor and limited social life
Do your parents seem like themselves? Are they engaging with friends and family? Do they participate in favorite activities? Be honest about their level of socializing.
How Visiting Angels Central Coast Can Help Your Loved One
Changes in behavior could indicate it’s time to look into senior care options. However, relocating to an assisted living facility can be stressful, disorienting and disheartening for seniors—most would prefer to remain at home. Instead, get the best of both worlds with assisted living home care from Visiting Angels Central Coast. Your parents will get one-on-one support from a friendly, competent caregiver who works on their schedule, with their routine. They can assist with meal preparation, medication reminders, errands, social outings and social technology to help maintain their health and happiness, while aging in place at home. Our caregivers can even help care for your loved one’s pets!
If you’re considering assisted living home care for a senior loved one in Santa Cruz or Monterey Counties, contact Visiting Angels Central Coast today at 831-430-0616.