Blog - February 14, 2024
Signs that it’s time to consider in-home aged care support.
Signs that it’s time to consider in-home aged care support. And how you can find the care that’s right for you.
We all know staying independent improves your wellbeing and increases your lifespan.
That’s why it’s difficult for some people to come to terms with growing older and the realisation that they may need some help as they age.
This can come with feelings of shame, depression and anxiety as people rely on others to help them with tasks they have done for a very long time.
But the truth is accepting some extra help at home to assist with daily jobs doesn’t mean you have to give up your freedom and can’t live an independent or active life.
In fact, it’s quite the opposite. Especially with an Intereach Home Care Package.
Getting assistance around your house and in the community is much more likely to keep you safe and comfortable and living easier in your home for longer.
Then you can Do More of the things you love, Be More active and Live More independently.
When is the right time to consider in-home aged care support?
It’s important you don’t leave this decision until the last minute. As you prepare for your senior years, decisions should be thoughtful and made over time – not rushed.
Leaving things to the last minute could leave you with limited choices and you may risk having to move into a residential aged care facility even if this was not on your wish list.
We asked some members of our friendly Aged Care team what signs to look out for, so you can make an informed decision about when you should consider in-home aged care support.
These tips are very important for family members. If you notice a loved one is beginning to experience challenges, it is a good time to start the conversation.
Look for the signs.
Changes can be subtle or occur gradually over time and not all these things must be occurring at an older age for you to start thinking about extra help.
Keep an eye out for daily tasks you may be struggling with or signs that your older loved one may need an extra hand around the home.
Changes in physical health
As people age, they may experience deterioration in physical health, making it challenging to perform everyday tasks. Doing the laundry or preparing meals may start to feel overwhelming and hard to do. Signs to look out for include less mobility, increased frailty, or health conditions that require regular assistance.
Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline, including conditions like dementia or Alzheimer’s, can significantly impact a person’s ability to live independently. People may start to experience poor personal grooming, messier living spaces, forgetfulness around common daily responsibilities, such as missing meals, medication times and appointments, or forgetting to pay bills. If you notice memory lapses, confusion, or behavioural changes, it may be time to explore in-home aged care options.
I'd noticed subtle changes in Mum's daily routine. Her once immaculate home seemed a bit disorganised, and she was not keeping up with her gardening like she used to that made me realise she might need a helping hand.
Jennifer - Daughter of an Intereach Home Care Package recipient
Safety Concerns
Evaluate the home environment for potential safety hazards. Are there are frequent accidents – however minor, falls or unsteadiness, an inability to manage household tasks safely, or decreased attention to food safety, such as using foods beyond expiry dates? Then in-home aged care support can provide the necessary assistance to create a secure living space.
Caregiver Burnout
Family and friends could be providing more home assistance with everyday tasks. If they are caring for ageing loved ones, they may experience burnout over time. If caregivers find it increasingly challenging to balance their responsibilities and maintain their own wellbeing, seeking professional in-home care can be a beneficial solution to all.
Make the decision to thrive
While you may have an idea of what you think home care is, it varies from person to person. Your view of home care may be as simple as assistance with picking up groceries from the shop, while for others it could mean more hands-on help in the kitchen, garden and with their personal care, such as showering and/or dressing.
Whatever your unique situation is, accessing in-home care services earlier means life at home will be more comfortable and a lot easier. A little support can go a long way towards improving your quality of life.
Our dedicated Aged Care team is committed to providing personalised in-home aged care support tailored to meet the unique needs of each person. Allowing you to Do More of what you love, Be More active and Live More independently.
Want to know more?
For more information about in-home aged care support contact us today for a free consultation:
Phone: 1300 488 226
Website: www.intereach.com.au/service/home-care-packages/
Email: agedcare@intereach.com.au
Or fill out the below online form.
If you're interested in exploring Intereach Aged Care services and how they can benefit you or your loved ones, please complete our enquiry form, and one of our dedicated team members will call you back to discuss your needs in detail.
Intereach Home Care Packages
Information and resources about Intereach Home Care Packages
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