January 1st, 2017 was my first day as the new owner of a personal care agency. After 20 years in professional hockey as a player, coach, manager and front office executive I was ready to take on a new challenge in a world I was very new to. My first goal was to build relationships with my new teammates…. our caregivers, and to hit the road meeting current clients and their families. As the weeks went by, and I became more familiar with everyone, I got more and more excited. The positive impact my new team was having on the elder community was inspiring. I began to realize just how much of a difference we could make and that we were more than just help…. we were a solution to a rapidly growing need for seniors and their families.
As our parents age, their needs can change in ways that are sometimes hard to recognize. It’s a delicate balance of respecting their independence while also making sure they have the support they need to maintain a safe, comfortable, and dignified life. One of the most important things we can do for our aging parents is to stay attuned to the signs that they may need in-home support. These signs can vary but often appear in subtle ways.
Here are some of the frequent topics of conversation as families work through when the right time is to consider in-home support for their elderly parents…
“The house is always a mess; the trash is not taken out and food is going bad in the fridge. I don’t think they are cooking meals anymore.”
One of the first and most noticeable signs that our parents may need help is everyday activities like cooking, cleaning, and maintaining the household begin to slip. If you notice that your parent is no longer preparing meals, keeping the house tidy, or performing tasks like laundry or shopping, it may be time to consider in-home help. These are essential activities that contribute to their well-being and help with them can significantly improve their quality of life.
“If we are not around for a few days, we notice they are not taking care of themselves like they used to.”
If your parent is suddenly neglecting basic personal care routines—such as bathing, brushing their teeth, or changing clothes—this can be a signal that they’re struggling with physical or cognitive tasks. It could be due to physical limitations, lack of energy, or even memory loss, all of which can be alleviated with assistance from a caregiver.
“I think mom fell last week but she says it didn’t happen. I have noticed some bruises, and she seems unstable on her feet.”
Falls are a major concern for the elderly, as they can lead to serious injuries or even long-term disability. If your parent has recently had a fall, or if they seem increasingly unsteady on their feet, it may be a sign they need support in the home. A caregiver can assist with mobility, provide safety measures like handrails, and monitor for potential hazards around the home to prevent further accidents.
“Mom forgot that I called her yesterday and she didn’t remember that I was coming to pick her up for lunch.”
Aging can sometimes bring about cognitive decline, leading to forgetfulness or confusion. If your parent forgets appointments, loses track of time, or is confused about daily routines, it could be a sign of a condition like dementia or Alzheimer’s. In such cases, in-home support can help with medication reminders, managing routines, and providing a structured environment to improve safety and comfort.
“Ever since dad passed away mom is very lonely. I try to tell her to get out and see her friends, but she never wants to leave the house.”
Seniors who live alone may become more isolated as they age, particularly if they are no longer able to drive or get out easily. Isolation can lead to depression and further decline in health. If your parent is withdrawing from social activities, family gatherings, or appears lonely, it could be a sign that they need someone to engage with them regularly, whether it’s through companionship or assistance with getting out of the house for social activities.
“I have noticed mom has forgotten to take her meds for days and sometimes she takes her PM meds in the morning.”
For many elderly individuals, managing multiple medications can become overwhelming. If your parent is forgetting to take their medications, mixing them up, or running out of prescriptions frequently, this can be a serious concern. A caregiver can help ensure your parent takes the right medications at the right times, reducing the risk of dangerous mistakes.
I am now 8 years into my Home Care business ownership, in hockey terms I would be considered an old vet. Conversations like the one above happen daily. Wins for me have moved from a scoreboard to a care plan and championships are now relationships. I feel blessed to have the opportunity to lead a team of people that take such pride in helping others. Just like pro hockey there will be losses, and I continue to approach those the same as I did as a coach. We either Win or we Learn.
What can we do to grow and further spread our positive impact? That’s what keeps my competitive edge today, and everyday. LET’S GO!!
Brad Church
Owner-D&C Home Care