When to Hire a Caregiver

If you, or your loved one, need medical care then it is obvious that a medical caregiver (such as a registered nurse) is required. However, there are many instances where hiring a caregiver is essential for well being even when medical care is not needed.

Warning signs that your parent needs elder care assistance.

These symptoms are a warning sign that indicate a fundamental change in a person's physical or mental ability to function independently at home, and may indicate a need for home health care services.

Mobility Issues

• Difficulty walking
• Unsteady when standing
• Falling down
• Stumbling  

Disinterest in Personal Health

• Changes in eating or cooking habits
• Spoiled or outdated food in the refrigerator
• Lack of nutritious food in the pantry or freezer  

Disinterest in Personal Hygiene

• Wearing night clothes all day
• Wearing soiled or unkempt clothing
• Lack of bathing
• Lack of oral care
• Unkempt hair or nails

Changes in Personal Habits

• Loss of interest in hobbies
• Reluctance to socialize
• Unopened mail or unpaid bills
• Changes in housekeeping methods
• Lack of home maintenance
• Lack of car maintenance

 Loss of Mental Acuity

• Memory loss, confusion, difficulty in concentration, or poor judgment
• Forgets medication or has become confused about dosage
• Unusual purchases of goods or services 
• Mood or other personality changes
• Increase or decrease in sleep
• Fatigue or lack of energy
• Increase in car accidents, tales of near misses, or tickets

If you notice any of these changes in someone that you care about, then please heed these warning signs. Immediately contact a doctor to rule out any medical conditions that may be contributing to these symptoms. Once a medical condition has been ruled out, or is under control, any remaining issues can be taken care of through the assistance of a caregiver.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this web site is general in nature and is intended for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to replace or substitute the evaluation, judgment, diagnosis, and medical or preventative care of a physician, therapist and/or health care provider Statements and information regarding any vitamins, supplements, foods or products mentioned within this site have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Any information on this site should be considered as general information only and should not be used to diagnose or treat any health condition. Any medical, nutritional, dietetic, therapeutic or other decisions, dosages, treatments or drug regimes should be made in consultation with a health care practitioner. Do not discontinue treatment or medication without first consulting your physician, clinician or therapist. It is very important that you consult your health care provider for a diagnosis and treatment of any medical concerns you may have, before implementing any diet, supplement, exercise or other lifestyle changes.