Are you worried that your parents might not be able to get the most out of life due to limitations brought about by the aging process? Then now might be the time to consider hiring a caregiver. Although you can provide support yourself, if you have time or distance limitations, some extra help can put your mind at ease and allow your parents to live a happy and stress-free life. 

Knowing when to hire a caregiver can be difficult, especially if you are busy. But there are some clear signs that you can look out for.

1. Missed medication

Missing medication can put your parents' health at risk, especially in the long term. A caregiver can ensure that your parents take the right medication at the right time.

2. General forgetfulness

Forgetfulness is a normal part of aging for many people. But in some cases, forgetfulness can cause more serious problems. For instance, forgetting to lock up at night can leave your parents' home at risk of burglary. With a caregiver to help with daily tasks and to remind your parents, forgetfulness won't be a serious issue.

3. Mobility issues

If your parents suffer from balance problems or have physical ailments that prevent them from moving around comfortably, life will become more difficult. Caregivers can take care of tasks such as cooking, cleaning, and paying bills.

4. Weight loss

Weight loss can occur if your parents are unable to feed themselves properly. Eating the wrong foods can also deprive your parents of valuable nutrients. Caregivers can shop for healthy foods and cook nutritious meals.

5. Changes in appearance

If you notice that your parents often look disheveled, they may no longer be able to provide a high level of personal care for themselves. This could be due to mobility issues, memory problems, and a loss of self-esteem. This is true if your parents' home is often messy.

A caregiver can ensure that your parents never struggle to stay clean or well-dressed by helping them with tasks such as washing and ironing clothes and general housework.

6. Depression

Depression is a sign that your parents are struggling to live comfortably. It is also a sign of loneliness. By hiring a caregiver, your parents will have someone to talk to as well as someone to help them around the house.

Senior home care can help you to ensure that your parents never struggle in your absence. With the assistance of a caregiver, you'll have peace of mind knowing that your parents have someone to help them with daily tasks and even just someone to talk to. If you have noticed some or all of the above signs, consider talking to your parents about hiring a caregiver.  

Contact a local home health care service, such as Comfort Keepers Home Health Care, to learn more.