What to Do If You Feel Your Loved One Needs More Care at Home

It’s not always easy to know when a loved one might need extra support at home. If you’ve been wondering what to do if you feel your loved one needs more care at home, it’s important to look for signs that they may require additional help. You might have noticed small changes—perhaps daily tasks are becoming a struggle, meals are being skipped, or they seem more withdrawn. If you’re beginning to worry, you’re not alone. Many families reach this stage and wonder how best to support their loved ones while still respecting their independence.

If you’re unsure how to approach the situation, here’s a simple guide to help you take the next steps with confidence.

Recognising When Extra Support May Be Needed

Sometimes, the signs that more care is needed are clear, but other times, they can be subtle. It’s important to be mindful of changes such as:

• Forgetting to take medicine or missing important appointments.
• Struggling with personal care, such as dressing or bathing.
• A noticeable change in weight due to eating less or skipping meals.
• A messy home, unopened post, or bills piling up
• Difficulties with mobility, frequent falls, or increased reliance on furniture for support.
• Withdrawing from social activities or avoiding friends and family.
• Periods of confusion or becoming disoriented more frequently.

Everyone has off days, but if these concerns are happening regularly, it may be time to explore extra support.

Starting the Conversation with Care

Talking about care can feel difficult, especially if your loved one values their independence. The key is to make it an open and supportive discussion, rather than something imposed on them.

Choose a quiet time when they feel relaxed, and gently express your concerns. For example:

“I’ve noticed you seem to be finding certain tasks more difficult lately. Would having a little extra support make things easier for you?”

Encourage them to share their thoughts and feelings. Many people hesitate to ask for support because they don’t want to feel like a burden. Reassure them that home care is flexible and designed to enhance independence rather than take it away.

Exploring Different Types of Home Care

Home care is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s designed to be flexible, offering the right level of support based on individual needs. Some options to consider include:

• Hourly care – A carer visits for a few hours a day to help with tasks such as meal preparation, personal care, housekeeping, or companionship.
• Live-in care – A carer stays in the home to provide round-the-clock assistance, ensuring constant support and peace of mind.
• Overnight care – Ideal for those who may need reassurance or assistance during the night, particularly with mobility or personal care.

Choosing home care allows your loved one to remain in a familiar setting while receiving tailored support that fits their lifestyle.

Seeking Professional Guidance

If you’re unsure what level of care is best, speaking to a professional can help. A doctor, social worker, or home care provider can assess your loved one’s needs and offer guidance on the most suitable care options.

It’s also worth looking into financial support, as some care services may be eligible for funding through local authorities or charitable organisations. Getting the right advice early on can make the transition to home care smoother and more manageable.

Trialling Short-Term Care

If your loved one is hesitant about accepting support, starting with a trial period can be a gentle introduction. Arranging care for just a few hours a week allows them to experience the benefits without feeling like they are making a long-term commitment.

Many people find that after receiving some help, they feel more comfortable and open to the idea of ongoing care. The aim is to show them that home care is there to enhance their independence and make daily life easier—not to take away their freedom.

If you think your loved one could benefit from extra support at home, In Home Care is here to help. We provide elderly care, hourly care, live-in care, and overnight care across Horndean, Cheshire & St Helens, Woodford & Loughton, Basingstoke, Chelmsford & Ipswich, Fareham & Portsmouth, Haslemere, and Chichester. Call us today for a friendly chat about how we can support your family.