The easy answer is that you should trust your gut. If you worry that your loved one requires 24-hour care, you are probably right. Here are some specific things you can look for to know when it’s time to consider 24-hour at-home care for your parent:
Repeated accidents. Your loved one may need to be monitored more closely if they repeatedly stumble, fall, or even have close calls.
Physical care requirements change. If you can no longer meet the physical requirements of your caregiving duties, you should consider bringing in 24-hour care rather than risking your own health and safety to care for your parent.
Your loved one has Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. If they are at risk of wandering off, leaving a stove turned on, or are experiencing “sundowning,” they may need more care than you can provide alone.
You experience caregiver burnout. Caring for a loved one can be physically and emotionally draining. Whether you need a short break or full-time help, caregiver burnout is an extremely valid reason to bring in 24-hour home care for your parent.
24-hour in-home care involves around-the-clock assistance with activities of daily living such as toileting, bathing, grooming, eating, and more.