5 Warning Signs Dad needs a caregiver
As people get older, things that use to be easy become difficult or impossible. Healthcare becomes more important. For example, remembering to take their prescription medications. There are Warning Signs Dad needs a caregiver to look out for. The family caregiver my need a professional caregiver to take care of dad or Mom. Med-Q Medication Compliance system offers these warning signs to be on the look out for.
1. He struggles to get up from the couch
The top warning sign that Dad needs a caregiver involves getting up and down. Transferring from a chair or in and out of the car takes strength, balance and coordination. Anyone who has ever been dizzy or weak from illness, knows how hard this can be.
If it takes Dad a big push or several tries to get up be careful. Hence, it’s a accident that can turn into a crisis . Transfers are a common point of falls. Just such a crisis happened to my grandpa. He ended up stuck in his bathtub for almost 12 hours. Dad was survived by drinking water from the faucet. Also, pulling a towel over himself to keep warm instead of a blanket. We felt awful when we found him after many, many phone calls. Again, all this may have been avoided all together He needed an emergency response system at the very least.
Dad just really needed help with his day to day care. Grandpa had to temporarily stay at a nursing Thus, this time he was able to recover and go back home. Don’t let this happen to your Dad. Take heed of the signs.
2. You notice unexplained bruises or Dad tells of ”having a little fall”
Seeing bruising is a top thing to look for. For example, small injuries are usually the precursors to future major injuries. First of all, they indicate balance problems. Second of all, this means difficulty in safely navigating their own homes. Often, what you see is only part of the story. If Dad admits to a “little slip” or a bump on his head, it’s most likely not the first time.
Med-Q Pill Box recommends you get a comprehensive in-home evaluation. This is used to determine if needed resources are recommended. For example, physical therapy, in-home fitness services, caregiver assistance, home modifications and more. Finally, a couple minor changes can often stop your worst fears from coming true.
3. Dad needs a caregiver is you see personality changes
He gets agitated easily. He has become forgetful or fatigued. Another example, Dad complains of sleep issues and pain. These sign may indicate Dad is experiencing depression. Senior Men and women often have less identifiable symptoms of depression than younger people. They tend not to acknowledge (or even understand) what they’re feeling. Finally, it may appear through physical symptoms, foggy thinking or acting disinterest.
Why does Dad needs a caregiver? Using a home caregiver will reduce social isolation. In addition, it will encouraging activity, providing healthy nutritional support, keeping medications and routines on track.
4. Dad becomes an island to himself
First, all people will vary in levels of out-goingness and other activities. However, be sure to pay attention if Dad’s pulling back from some of his favorite activities. Another example, becoming extremely inactive or lethargic.
Loneliness and isolation have been shown to have a direct link to cognitive decline. In addition, leads to depression, and hypertension (higher blood pressure). Ending up with poor overall physical as well as mental health. They’re major predictors of nursing home placement. Dad needs a caregiver to prevent isolation.
Additionally, if Dad no longer goes out with friends or does much at all, there might be more going on than meets the eye. Perhaps he’s scared of falling (Seniors #3 biggest fear). Or, maybe he’s had some incidents driving. A big change in activity patterns shouldn’t be glossed over. A caregiver can help with the underlying problems. And, he/she can encourage and support activities…plus provide companionship.
5. He’s forgetting words and missing appointments
Cognitive issues can be a warning sign that Dad needs a caregiver. These can be very obvious or extremely subtle. Many aging parents will make attempts to cover up their forgetfulness (cognitive decline). You might find out Dad’s been forgotten doctor as well as other appointments First, spend extra time together with conversation will help you spot changes in Dad’s mind. Remember, a professional caregiver can also be your “eyes and ears” when visiting your dad.
Signs show up in speech and “executive function”. Executive function is the interplay of mental processes that helps us get things done. Loss of function can lead to trouble focusing, follow directions, and handle emotions. Have you noticed Dad can’t think of a common word or phrase? Or, maybe he no longer contributes to the conversation anymore. As mentioned above, it’s also a common reason he withdraws from social activities. In addition, means he will limit his driving. Another example, not being able to manage personal and home care. Dad needs a caregiver requires observation. If you’re unsure if what you’re seeing is normal aging or something else, contact our health care professional for an evaluation
Health care profsionals are in agreement, “For most medications, it is safer to accidentally miss a single dose than to double dose” . Keep in mind that the pill/dosing guidelines vary drastically depending on the medication. For example, it is different for blood thinners or something like birth control.), it is always best to double-check with a professional. If in doubt, call the local pharmacy you got the prescription filled. Also, call e the 
