We often see signs that Mom or Dad is getting older. Often times, our parents tell us that they're fine and don't need any help. Sometimes, too, the changes in our parents come on gradually and can be subtle.  But do you know what signs to look for that may indicate that your aging parents may need some in-home care? The following list provides some signs to watch for in your parents that may indicate that some additional assistance in the home is needed:

Poor grooming/hygiene- clothing soiled or changed less often, bathes less frequently.

• Changes in judgment and concentration
• Changes in memory-more forgetful or confused
• Decrease socialization with friends and family
• Loss of interest in activities that were once enjoyed
• Decrease in home maintenance-poor housekeeping
• Decrease in energy level/increase in fatigue
• Changes to personality-withdrawn, sudden mood changes or irritability
• Mishandled finances-past due bills, unopened mail
• Changes in eating habits or a loss of appetite-outdated food in refrigerator
• Changes to mobility-recent falls, unsteady, difficulty walking
• Decrease in driving skills-recent accidents/near accidents
• Medication mistakes-skips medications, over-medicates

If you notice these or other significant changes to your aging parent's status, it may be time to seek assistance. Home care services can usually be from a few hours a day to 24 hour live-in. Making the first step is always the most difficult, but it's better to seek care for your parents before a crisis arises. In South Jersey, Family Choice Home Care is there for you, providing hourly and live-in care. You can't put a price on peace of mind. Don't wait for a crisis to occur before you seek help for your parents.