When seniors live alone and opt to age in place, they need to be prepared for a variety of possible safety issues. One of the ways that families might stay aware of what’s happening with their aging family members is to hire companion care at home services. These caregivers don’t offer hands-on help like elder care providers do, but they can alert families to new issues and they offer companionship to seniors.
Malnutrition
It can be incredibly difficult for seniors living alone to maintain a balanced diet. This can very quickly lead to malnutrition and dehydration. Seniors may opt for the easy choices, like highly processed foods, or simply avoid eating altogether.
Companion care at home providers can pay attention to signs of malnourishment, warning families when seniors might need more help with meals and eating healthfully. Many seniors also miss the social aspects of eating, and spending time with companion care at home aides during meals can encourage them to eat more.
Fall Risks
Falls are a massive source of concern in regard to senior safety. Poor lighting, clutter, other obstacles, and unsafe living conditions can all increase fall risks for aging adults. Family caregivers can ask their seniors’ doctors what their unique fall risk factors are so that they have a complete picture of what to be aware of on a consistent basis.
Overlooked Health Issues
When seniors live alone, they may not always notice when they’re facing a new or increasing health issue. Companion care at home means that someone is stopping by to visit seniors in person. They may notice small changes in behavior or appearance that could indicate that seniors are dealing with some increased health issues.
Loneliness and Isolation
Seniors who live alone are at a much greater risk of experiencing isolation and loneliness. Friends and family members may not be able to visit as much as they want, leaving seniors on their own too much. Companion care at home is a perfect solution because companion caregivers are there to offer emotional support, conversations, and to enjoy recreational activities together.
Mental Health Issues
When seniors are spending more and more time alone, they may experience anxiety, depression, and even cognitive decline. Many of these issues can be reversed with the mental stimulation that socialization can provide. Companion care at home providers can also let family caregivers know more about what they’re seeing in person so that they have the information they need to help more.
Lack of Help with Daily Tasks
Eventually, seniors are likely to need more help with daily tasks. Home care services can help with light household tasks, meals, and mobility assistance, among other tasks. Companion care at home professionals can notice the signs that seniors need more help and let family members know what is happening.
Seniors who are aging in place can do so with a little bit of help. But if family members don’t realize what help seniors need, it’s tough to make sure they have that help available to them. Companion care at home is an excellent first step in making sure seniors have what they need.
As an added bonus, companion care at home providers spend time with seniors and help meet their social engagement needs.
If you or an aging loved one are considering Companion Care at Home in Bellevue, WA, please contact the caring staff at Acti-Kare Responsive In Home Care today!
Acti-Kare provides exceptional senior home care across King County, Pierce County, and Snohomish County; including Bellevue, Bothell, Kenmore, Kirkland, Lynnwood, Redmond, Renton, Woodinville, Tacoma, Shoreline, Everett, Seattle, and surrounding areas.
