Elderly Care in Clearwater: Why Clutter is a Sign It's Time for a Caregiver
If you have recently visited an elderly parent or loved one and noticed their home becoming cluttered or unkempt, it could be a sign your loved one is in need of assistance. Seniors may be hesitant to ask for help because they fear giving up their independence. Approaching your loved one about what you notice may seem awkward, however, professional care can make things easier for your loved one and actually promotes continued independence. Visiting Angels® Clearwater FL provides elderly care referrals to seniors in our community so they can get the support they need in order to age in place.
As an experienced provider of elderly care referrals, Visiting Angels Clearwater is familiar with the reasons why clutter in the home may signify a need for professional care. A cluttered home can be a warning sign for other issues:
Forgetfulness - It may simply be your loved one is forgetting to clean up after dinner or to do the laundry. However, routinely forgetting tasks which never posed a problem in the past could be a red flag for Alzheimer's or dementia. If you suspect your loved one's home is cluttered due to memory issues, be sure to contact their physician.
Physical issues - If your loved one is dealing with limited mobility, injury, or disability, it can make household organization challenging. Seniors are sometimes in denial about the impact factors such as stroke, arthritis, and more have on their ability to complete daily tasks.
Depression - Seniors are at a higher risk for depression due to senior isolation. Seniors who are depressed may lose their motivation to maintain the home, leading to clutter.
How Clutter Affects Seniors
The biggest concern when a senior lives in a cluttered home is an increased risk for falls. According to the CDC at least 1 in 4 seniors per year will suffer a fall. Falls can lead to broken bones, head injuries, and more. When coupled with the fact that many seniors are dealing with decreased vision or balance, clutter becomes a significant risk factor. An elderly care referral from Visiting Angels Clearwater can help.
How You Can Help
Referrals for elderly care from Visiting Angels Clearwater provide seniors with in-home assistance from a trusted professional. Caregivers can help with household organization and light housekeeping tasks, as well as help to address the underlying causes of clutter.
If you have a loved one who is struggling with clutter in the home, call Visiting Angels Clearwater today and ask about our elderly care referrals.