As people age and become frailer, there may come a time when they can no longer maintain a healthy and safe lifestyle without the assistance of outside help. For seniors, believing they might lose control over some of their independence if they accept outside help is a scary proposition. This is when a loved one needs to intervene with tact and help steer the senior toward a path of accepting help that can not only provide safety, but foster independence at home as well.

So, how do you know it’s time for help? According to the Mayo Clinic, the following are key warning signs that in-home care is needed:

Weight loss. For the elderly, weight loss without trying could be related to difficulty cooking, loss of taste or smell, or other underlying conditions such as malnutrition, dementia, or depression.

Personal grooming and housekeeping changes. Failure to keep up with daily personal care routines such as bathing, tooth brushing, and other basic grooming could indicate dementia, depression, or physical impairments. Any big changes in the way things are done around the house could also provide clues to health.

Increased injury and safety concerns. Take a look around the home, keeping an eye out for any red flags. Does the senior have difficulty navigating a narrow stairway? Has she fallen recently? Is she able to read directions on medication containers? Is there adequate lighting for nighttime trips to the bathroom?

Mood changes. Drastically different moods or outlooks could be a sign of depression or other health concerns.

Struggling to keep finances in order. If mail is piling up unopened, it can indicate that paying the bills and taking care of day-to-day finances is becoming overwhelming. Handling money differently or more poorly may also indicate a need for help.

When approaching someone about these warning signs, remember to be sensitive and use motivational rather than judgmental language. Working with a professional caregiver such as the ones provided by Freedom Home Care can also help to identify important issues and assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and meals as well as companionship.

Contact Freedom Home Care in Dothan, Alabama at 334-803-8078 or Opelika, Alabama at 334-745-7308 for more information on private duty care and customized options for varying client needs. Freedom Home Care also has offices in Columbus, Georgia and Montgomery, Alabama.