Are there signs that are worrying you?

It’s so tricky getting this right. Generally there will be a few telltale signs that someone needs support at home. But no one wants to take away their independence, or offend them, or worse still alienate them. In general the number of small things add up to a point where it’s best to have a conversation. Here are the signs to look out for:

Not changing the bed linen as often

We have found that so many people we meet are doing ok, but changing the bed linen has become a mammoth task and isn’t happening, or at least not regularly. It’s a tricky one to spot because you don’t necessarily venture into someone’s bedroom to check. But find a way to keep an eye on this. 

Not keeping the home clean

Sometimes it’s just our eyesight that lets us down and we can’t see what needs cleaning. We meet so many people who have high standards, with everything as neat as a pin. They would be mortified to think their home had become dusty and dirty. Energy levels and lack of strength also mean that hoovering and mopping floors can become too much.

Not eating enough or managing the food situation

So many people’s appetites drop off in older age or if mobility is limited, so eating a little less is perfectly valid. But making sure someone is eating (and drinking) enough is so important. Do you understand what their system is for getting supplies? Are they going shopping or getting shopping delivered? We’ve come across so many people who are relying on neighbours. This can become a real burden and is not sustainable long term.

Keeping on top of expiry dates can also become tricky and might need another pair of eyes. We often find that if we are taking clients shopping they are inspired by the range of food they see and more tempted to broaden their repertoire. And if we are preparing meals for clients they are much more likely to eat well once it’s in front of them. This is especially true if their helper sits and eats with them or has a cuppa while they have their meal. It helps if meals can be sociable events. When shopping it’s good to include ‘picky bits’ that can be eaten without any preparation.

Wearing the same or dirty clothing

This might be an indicator that someone’s personal hygiene is slipping in general. It’s really important to understand their personal hygiene routine. A daily bath or shower is great, but we know that’s not the reality for many people, and probably not necessary, although if incontinence wear is needed then daily showering is more important. Try to establish what’s happening with washing. Poor memory might mean that someone’s prompts to wash themselves and change clothing etc are no longer there. And laundry might have become difficult to manage.

Not getting out or seeing people

The effects of not physically moving enough, coupled with not having enough social interactions are far reaching. Worries about mobility can stop people walking outside independently. It might be that some simple walking aids could make all the difference. If you’re not sure what’s needed an assessment by an OT might be really helpful. All the evidence proves that movement is the best medicine, and that lack of movement is the biggest risk factor for health. Becoming isolated can quickly lead to low mood, and can be a contributory factor with all the points above, particularly not eating well.

Not taking medication regularly

We often encounter people who don’t necessary understand the medicines they are on and what they are for. It’s a really good idea to have an annual medicine review with your local pharmacist. Poor memory might mean that medicines are being forgotten or taken haphazardly, which can really hamper their effectiveness.

Not keeping on top of appointments and admin

People can be understandably private about their personal affairs, so it can be easy to miss the cues that things are in a mess. The online world can be really tricky to navigate and mean that people are struggling to keep on top of their admin. Making health appointments is complicated and tends to require a lot of following up by phone which can be challenging, especially if the person has hearing difficulties.

Getting help

We advise starting slowly when introducing support, just a couple of hours a week, and then gently building up to the necessary level of support. In fact we are constantly surprised at how just a little support can make a big difference, as long as it’s regular and the helper is consistent. If you think Home & Company could help do get in touch.