Are You Noticing Subtle Signs of Decline?

Have you recently noticed unopened mail piling up on your parent’s kitchen counter? Are they skipping meals, missing medications, or avoiding social events they used to enjoy? Maybe you heard something in their voice—a hint of fatigue, frustration, or fear. If so, you’re not alone. Many adult children over 35 are silently struggling with the same realization: their aging parent might not be managing as well as they once did.

There are many overlooked signs a parent needs personal home care help—and recognizing them early can make all the difference.

At Nana Cares LLC, we’ve supported countless families at this very crossroad. We know how hard it is to balance your own life—careers, kids, and commitments—while worrying about a parent who might need help but is reluctant to ask. Let’s walk through how to recognize the signs and explore what a professional personal caregiver can truly offer.

The Quiet Clues: 9 Signs Your Parent Needs Personal Home Care Help

It doesn’t always start with a crisis. Often, it begins with small, overlooked changes. As home care professionals, we see the early red flags that often go unnoticed until something more serious happens:

Physical Signs

• Missed medications or taking the wrong dose

• Unexplained bruises or minor injuries from falls

• Wearing the same clothes for days or neglecting hygiene

  
  

Environmental Clues

• Stacks of unopened mail or unpaid bills

• Expired or spoiled food in the fridge

• Clutter and general disorganization

  
  

Emotional & Behavioral Shifts

• Isolation from friends or family

• Sudden mood changes or irritability

• Trouble remembering appointments or repeating questions

  
  

Personal Note

One of our clients, Mr. J., reached out after his mother had a minor kitchen fire. He realized that her struggle to remember whether the stove was on was more than just "old age."

These signs can feel overwhelming. But they also signal an opportunity: to intervene with dignity and proactive care before a bigger crisis strikes. If you're noticing these signs your parent needs personal home care help, now is the time to act.

What a Personal Caregiver Can Actually Do

Many families think personal caregivers just "keep company." In truth, our caregivers do so much more. A personal caregiver is trained to support independence, dignity, and well-being—all within the familiar comfort of your parent’s home.

1. Daily Personal Hygiene Support

Bathing, grooming, dressing, and toileting—these are deeply personal needs that can become daunting with age. Our caregivers provide assistance with sensitivity and respect, making clients feel secure and confident.

2. Meal Preparation & Nutrition Monitoring

A caregiver can ensure your loved one gets healthy, nutritious meals that meet their dietary needs. We even cook together when clients want to stay involved.

3. Medication Reminders

Caregivers track medication times and doses, reducing the risk of missed or double doses—especially crucial for chronic conditions.

4. Mobility Assistance & Fall Prevention

From getting out of bed safely to walking without fear of falling, our caregivers are trained in safe transfers and mobility techniques.

5. Companionship & Emotional Support

Loneliness can be just as dangerous as any physical illness. A good caregiver becomes a trusted companion, offering conversation, laughter, and encouragement.

Real Story

One of our clients, Ms. D., had stopped leaving the house entirely. After three weeks with her caregiver Maria, she began taking short walks again. By month two, she was gardening.

Benefits for You: The Family Caregiver

When you bring in help, you're not failing—you're strengthening your family's support system. Here’s how hiring a caregiver helps you, too:

• Peace of mind: Know your parent is safe when you can’t be there.

• Reduced stress: No more juggling work meetings and wellness checks.

• Time to be a daughter or son again: Reclaim your role in the family.

• Better relationships: Less friction and emotional burnout.

  
  

We’ve worked with many adult children who finally felt they could breathe again after adding a personal caregiver. You don’t have to do it all. And you shouldn’t.

Why Choose Professional Help Instead of Doing It All Yourself?

Here’s what makes trained personal caregivers a better solution than handling everything yourself or hiring "under the table" care:

• Credentialed, background-checked staff

• Trained in elder safety, cognitive decline, and medical conditions

• Consistent scheduling and documentation

• HIPAA-compliant and insured through an agency

  
  

At Nana Cares LLC, our team includes skilled companions, personal care attendants, and supervisors who ensure every care plan is followed to the letter.

Our Promise

Every caregiver arrives not only with training but with heart.

How to Start the Conversation With Your Parent

We understand that it can feel awkward to bring up the idea of help. Try these conversation openers:

• "I want to make sure you’re safe and supported."

• "How would you feel about someone helping with meals or chores?"

• "Let’s just try a few hours a week and see how it feels."

  
  

Let them feel involved in the decision. Highlight that caregiving is about preserving independence, not taking it away.

How Nana Cares Can Help

We proudly serve families across Marion, Hendricks, Hamilton, and Johnson counties in Indiana with:

• Medicaid waiver services

• Private pay care plans

• 24-hour and overnight care

• Emergency and weekend relief

  
  

Every family starts with a free consultation so we can understand your parent’s unique needs. No pressure. Just answers.

info@nanacaresllc.org

You Don’t Have to Carry This Alone

If you’re reading this, you’re already doing the most important thing: paying attention. Let us help you take the next step.

Because when your parent is struggling at home, the best thing you can do—for them and for you—is bring in care that is experienced, loving, and tailored to your family's needs.

We’re Nana Cares LLC. And we’re here when you’re ready.

A caregiver gently holds the hand of an elderly woman, providing comfort and support in a moment of connection