4 Signs Your Loved One May Need Home Care This Summer

Summer often means spending more time with aging parents and grandparents, making it easier to notice small changes that may suggest they could benefit from extra support with home care. 

Key Takeaways 

• • Summer routines often create more opportunities to notice changes in your loved one’s health, daily habits, and overall well-being that may not be as obvious during other times of the year. 
  • Small changes can be early signs your loved one needs extra support. Look for things like skipping favorite activities, struggling with everyday tasks, feeling the effects of heat more easily, or spending more time alone.
  • The right support allows older adults to stay safe, connected, and engaged. It also gives families greater peace of mind and more time to simply enjoy the season together.
    

Family vacations, neighborhood cookouts, afternoons with the grandkids, and other summer gatherings often bring families together. Those extra moments together can make it easier to notice subtle changes that might otherwise go unseen.

Some of our clients have described caring for a loved one as being overwhelming. One family said, “We’ve struggled for a long time, trying different ways to meet our mother’s needs.” After getting support, they confirmed feeling more confident. “The companions assigned to my mother’s case have been very caring and responsible, and this has given me some peace of mind.”

Some challenges become easier to notice during the summer. Hotter temperatures, more activity, and changing routines can make it easier to see when an aging loved one could benefit from the extra support of home care.

Here are four signs your loved one may benefit from a little extra support with home care this summer.

Sign #1 – Your Loved One Is Missing Out on Summer Activities They Once Enjoyed

One sign is when your loved one stops participating in activities they’ve always loved. Maybe your mom has started saying no to weekend outings, for example, or your dad is staying home when the family gets together at your house.

Many older adults are still interested in participating in summer activities, but they opt out for a number of reasons. Getting to events may feel harder than it once did. They don’t want to feel like an inconvenience to family and friends, so they simply stay home.

They may also tire more easily and want to be close to home where they can rest whenever they need to. Changes in vision or balance may be making crowded spaces less comfortable.

Missing out on summer fun may seem like the only option. But sometimes all your loved one needs is a little extra support to feel comfortable and confident to join in.

Sign #2 – Daily Tasks Are Becoming More Difficult to Manage 

Even if they’re still participating in summer activities, your aging parents may be finding everyday tasks just a little bit harder. Together time during the summer gives you an opportunity to notice.

It could be that the refrigerator isn’t stocked like it used to be. Or mail is piling up on the counter. Bills remain unopened, and household chores are unfinished. None of these things may seem urgent on their own, but together they could point to difficulty managing daily responsibilities.

Many families find themselves in a similar situation, noticing small signs that their loved one could use some additional support with everyday tasks.

Sign #3 – Summer Heat Is Taking a Greater Toll 

Another sign that’s easier to notice in the summer is more heat intolerance. According to the CDC, “People aged 65 years or older are more prone to heat-related health problems.”

Because the body deals with heat differently as we age, older adults may not always feel thirsty even when they need more fluids. Certain medications can also make dehydration more likely.

If your loved one is living with cognitive impairment, reminders to drink plenty of water can be helpful for them. Especially during hot summer days. 

Also, notice when your mom is more tired than usual or complains about headaches. Or if your dad feels dizzy when standing up or seems a little more irritable than normal.

If these changes are becoming more common, don’t dismiss them as just a part of a hot day. They may be a sign that your loved one could benefit from a little extra support with home care during the summer months.

Sign #4 – Your Aging Parent Is Spending More Time Alone  

It’s no secret that summer can be a busy season for everyone. Between vacations, camps, family gatherings, and weekend plans, it seems everyone’s always got something to do. 

That means if your mom or dad is alone more often than not, even with all the opportunities to be with friends and family, you’ll want to take notice of it. 

Are they spending more time at home, talking less about friends, or going days without much interaction beyond a quick phone call? 

Social isolation can impact physical and emotional well-being, and sometimes it helps just to have someone to talk with, share a meal with, or look forward to seeing. Since summer is often thought of as a social season, regular connection is even more important for older adults who spend much of their time alone.

If you’ve noticed some of these changes in your loved one, it may be time for a little extra support this summer. Many families have found that a little extra support with home care brings welcome peace of mind. 

One family shared: “I can’t always be with Dad, but the care providers at Golden Harmony help me feel confident that he is safe, comfortable and healthy. Whenever I have a question or concern about his care, they are always available to help.” — A.G.

While safety is important, quality of life matters just as much. Meaningful conversation, shared meals, games, walks, and simply having someone to spend time with can make a tremendous difference. With the right support, your family can spend less time worrying and more time enjoying the season together. 

Every family reaches this decision at a different pace. Sometimes a few hours of companionship each week is enough to make a meaningful difference. Other times, families need more comprehensive support. Whatever your situation, we’re happy to answer questions, help you explore your options, and guide you toward the level of care that’s right for your loved one. Contact the Golden Harmony team today.