When is it Time for In-Home Help? Signs Your Loved One May Need Support

7 Signs Your Loved One May Need Support at Home

It’s one of the hardest questions adult children face:

“How do I know when it’s time to get help for my parent?”

Often, the signs are subtle; easy to explain away or overlook. But catching them early on can help your loved one stay safe, independent, and supported at home.

Here are some of the most common signs it might be time to bring in outside support. As always, seeking medical guidance is strongly suggested when you begin to notice any of the changes below.

1. Changes in Personal Hygiene or Appearance

Unwashed hair, wearing the same clothes for days, or skipping basic grooming can be early indicators that your loved one is struggling with daily tasks. It is important to determine whether these changes are due to physical limitations or something deeper.

2. Missed Medications or Doctor Appointments

If they’re forgetting medications, skipping appointments, or losing track of their care schedule, it’s a red flag that they may need assistance.

3. Unexplained Bruises or Injuries

Falls are a major concern as people age. Even small bruises can be a sign of bigger safety issues at home.

4. Weight Loss or Unusual Eating Habits

Is your loved one skipping meals? Eating expired food? Weight loss without a medical reason could point to difficulty with cooking or grocery shopping.

5. Memory Issues or Confusion

Repeated questions, getting lost in familiar places, or confusion around time and place might signal cognitive decline and the need for supportive care.

6. Withdrawal or Isolation

If your loved one is avoiding friends, family, or activities they used to enjoy, it could be a sign of depression or feeling overwhelmed by tasks that used to be easy.

7. Caregiver Burnout (That’s You)

If you’re feeling anxious, exhausted, or unsure of what to do next, it’s okay to ask for help. Getting support isn’t just for your loved one. It’s for you, too.

Remember, changes in daily habits and demeanor can stem from a variety of causes. It's important to always consult a trusted licesned healthcare professional when evaluating changes in your love's ones abilities and behaviors.

What Happens When You Get Help?

In-home help doesn’t have to be all or nothing.

Sometimes it starts with just a few hours a week, or a consultation to create a care plan.

At Bradley Advocacy, we help families figure out what kind of help aligns with your loved one's care needs and how to access it.

Not Sure What’s Next? Let’s Talk.

Contact us for a consultation and let’s talk through your situation. Whether you’re ready for help now or just need clarity, we're here to support you.