A little help once a week can make a big difference. But as we get older, our care needs can change, sometimes so gradually that family members don’t immediately notice.
If you’re wondering whether an elderly parent needs more care, it doesn’t necessarily mean something has gone wrong. It may simply mean the support that worked a few months ago no longer provides the help they need at home.
Here are some signs worth looking out for.
1. You’re providing more help between care visits
Are you shopping more often, preparing meals, making extra visits or calling several times a day?
Families often take on additional responsibilities without realising how much their loved one’s needs have changed. If you’re providing significantly more support than before, it could be time to review their home care support.
For family members who need a temporary break from caring responsibilities, respite care can provide additional support while allowing a loved one to remain at home.
2. Everyday routines are becoming harder
Getting dressed, preparing breakfast, keeping the home tidy or completing other everyday activities may begin taking longer.
Someone may still be managing independently, but that doesn’t always mean they’re managing comfortably.
Flexible domiciliary care can provide support with everyday routines while helping older people maintain their independence and continue living safely at home.
3. Meals and shopping are becoming difficult
An emptier fridge, expired food or increased reliance on snacks could indicate that shopping and preparing meals have become more difficult.
Home help and support can include assistance with shopping, meal preparation and other household tasks, helping an older person continue enjoying familiar routines in their own home.
4. They’re spending more time alone
Someone who previously enjoyed shopping, walking or seeing friends may gradually begin spending more time at home.
Mobility difficulties, reduced confidence or finding trips more tiring can all contribute to social isolation in older people.
Regular companionship care can provide conversation, reassurance and social connection while supporting someone to continue doing the things they enjoy.
Age UK also provides useful advice about loneliness and older people for individuals and families who are concerned about social isolation.
5. Existing care visits no longer feel enough
Sometimes the clearest sign that an elderly parent needs more help is that their existing care visits no longer cover everything they need.
If a visit that once comfortably supported their daily routine now feels packed with tasks, it may be time for a care needs review.
This doesn’t necessarily mean moving into residential care. Increasing care at home for an elderly person could simply mean longer visits, an additional daily visit or extra support at certain times.
Does needing more support mean full-time care?
Not necessarily.
The right level of elderly care at home is different for everyone.
Additional support could mean help at mealtimes, more frequent home care visits, companionship or evening assistance.
For people with greater care needs, overnight care or live-in care may provide additional reassurance and support while allowing them to remain in familiar surroundings.
When should care needs be reviewed?
If someone’s health, mobility, routine or ability to complete everyday tasks has changed, it’s worth checking whether their existing care plan still meets their needs.
The NHS care needs assessment guide explains how an assessment can look at everyday activities such as washing, dressing and preparing food, and identify what care and practical support may be appropriate.
You can also speak directly with a home care provider about reviewing an existing care plan and whether the frequency or type of support should change.
Don’t wait for a crisis
You don’t have to wait for a fall, hospital admission or emergency before considering additional care for an elderly loved one.
Sometimes making a small change early an extra visit, support with meals or additional companionship can make everyday life easier and help someone maintain their independence.
At Concept Care Community Services, our home care services can adapt as an individual’s needs change, from companionship and practical assistance to regular domiciliary care, overnight support and live-in care.
Have your loved one’s care needs changed?
Explore our home care services or speak to our team about finding the right level of care and support at home for your loved one.
