When to Start In-Home Care
Most families don't think about in-home care until a crisis forces the conversation. But starting earlier—before a fall or hospitalization—often leads to better outcomes. Not sure what type of care you'd need? See our types of care guide.
Common Warning Signs
These situations often indicate someone might benefit from support. No single sign means care is definitely needed, but multiple signs warrant serious consideration.
Safety Concerns at Home
Falls or near-falls. Leaving the stove on. Getting lost in familiar places. Burns or bruises with unclear explanations. These often indicate a need for at least companion care supervision.
Declining Personal Care
Wearing the same clothes repeatedly. Poor hygiene. Neglected grooming. Significant weight changes. This may indicate a need for personal care assistance.
Household Neglect
Spoiled food. Unpaid bills and unopened mail. Unkempt home. Expired medications.
Medication Problems
Missing doses or double-dosing. Confusion about which pills to take. May require skilled nursing for complex medication management.
Caregiver Burnout
If you're providing care yourself and feeling exhausted, overwhelmed, or neglecting your own health—respite care can help before you burn out completely.
Why Starting Earlier Is Better
Waiting for a crisis means making choices under pressure, with fewer options and less time to find the right fit. Starting earlier can also be more cost-effective.
Time to Find the Right Caregiver
Good caregivers are in demand. Starting before it's urgent gives you time to interview, check references, and find someone who's truly a good match. See what questions to ask.
Easier Adjustment
Introducing care when needs are lower allows your loved one to build a relationship with their caregiver gradually, rather than having a stranger appear during a vulnerable moment.
Prevention Over Reaction
Early intervention can prevent problems—catching medication errors before hospitalization, addressing fall risks before serious injury, maintaining nutrition before health declines.
Triggers That Often Prompt Action
While it's better to start proactively, these events often serve as the catalyst:
- Hospitalization — Especially for preventable issues like falls or dehydration
- New diagnosis — Dementia, Parkinson's, or conditions requiring increasing support
- Death of a spouse — The surviving partner may need more help than realized
- Doctor's recommendation — Healthcare providers suggest home care
How to Start the Conversation
Talking about needing help can be difficult. Some approaches that work:
Frame It as Temporary
"Let's try having someone come a few hours a week" is easier than "You need full-time care now."
Focus on Specific Tasks
"Wouldn't it be nice to have help with the heavy cleaning?" is more concrete than "You can't take care of yourself."
Let Them Maintain Control
Offer choices: which days to have help, what tasks to prioritize. Autonomy matters.
Quick Checklist: Is It Time?
- Has fallen or had near-falls in the past 6 months
- Has had medication errors or confusion
- Shows declining personal hygiene or home cleanliness
- Has become isolated or withdrawn
- Family caregivers are feeling stressed or burned out
- Doctor has expressed concerns about safety
- Lives alone and shouldn't be left alone for long periods
Multiple checkmarks? Take our assessment to understand your options.
What If They Refuse?
Resistance is common. Some strategies:
- Start with respite care — "This is to give me a break" can be easier to accept
- Try a trial period — Commit to trying it for just a month
- Find the right caregiver — The right personality match makes a huge difference. Interview carefully.
- Be patient — It may take multiple conversations
Ready to Explore Your Options?
Our assessment helps you understand what type of care might fit—with no obligation.
Take the Assessment