Learn more about CFSS in Minnesota
Recognizing when a family member needs additional support at home isn't always straightforward. Whether you're taking care of senior parents, supporting a spouse with a chronic illness, or helping an adult family member with a disability, the signs that someone needs help can be subtle at first and easy to attribute to a bad day, a busy week, or normal aging.
This guide will help you identify the signs that indicate it really is time to explore home care options, and walk you through exactly how to get a caregiver if that support is needed.
Asking this question often starts with noticing small changes in daily functioning. Here are five of the most common signs that indicate additional support may be beneficial.
Mobility Struggles
As we age, or as certain illnesses and disabilities progress, bones and joints can become stiff, and balance may become less reliable. If you've noticed a loved one struggling to climb stairs, rise from a seated position, or move safely through their home, this is often one of the earliest and clearest signs that they need support. Personal Care Assistants (PCAs) can provide physical assistance with mobility and perform regular safety checks to help prevent falls.
Difficulty Performing Basic Daily Tasks
Struggling with tasks like bathing, dressing, grocery shopping, or meal preparation, whether due to physical limitations, cognitive changes, or a disability, is a strong indicator that help is needed. A PCA can support these basic daily tasks, helping your loved one maintain their dignity and quality of life while receiving the assistance they need.
Increased Number of Medications
Managing multiple medications can quickly become overwhelming, particularly when combined with other care needs like monitoring blood sugar or completing physical therapy exercises at home. If you've noticed missed doses, confusion about medication schedules, or an increasingly complex regimen, this is a sign that additional support could help ensure safety and consistency for the person you care about.
Unbalanced Diet
Noticeable weight gain or weight loss can signal that a loved one isn't eating well. This could be due to difficulty preparing meals, memory challenges, or reduced mobility. A PCA can help plan balanced, nutritious meals and assist with grocery shopping, making a meaningful difference in your loved one’s overall health and well-being.
Confusion During Conversations
Difficulty following conversations, remembering recent events, or completing familiar tasks can indicate cognitive changes that may require additional support. This is especially important to watch for in loved ones who are isolated or not regularly socializing, as consistent engagement and supervision can help ensure their ongoing safety at home.
While taking care of senior parents is one of the most common reasons families seek PCA/CFSS services, the need for home care support extends well beyond aging parents.
Adults living with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or recovering from injury or surgery often require the same kind of hands-on assistance to remain safely and comfortably at home.
Regardless of age or diagnosis, the underlying question is the same: Is this person able to safely and independently manage their daily activities, or would they benefit from additional support?
To qualify for PCA/CFSS services in Minnesota, several eligibility requirements must be met.
Once you've recognized the signs and confirmed potential eligibility, the next step in learning how to get a caregiver is completing a PCA/CFSS Assessment. During this assessment, a Public Health Nurse will ask a series of questions to evaluate the individual's specific needs and determine the appropriate level of care. Those requiring assistance with multiple ADLs, or with more critical ADLs, will typically qualify for a greater number of care hours.
If you're unsure whether your loved one might qualify, our PCA Self Assessment is a helpful starting point to gauge potential eligibility before scheduling an official appointment.
Getting started with PCA/CFSS services is simpler than most families expect.
Just contact Best Care, and our team will help determine program eligibility and walk your family through your home care options from start to finish. We'll provide the information needed to request an official PCA/CFSS Assessment, and once eligibility is confirmed, we'll help train and hire the caregiver of your loved one’s choice – including family members, if that's the right fit.
At Best Care, we’re here to help your family with all questions related to family caregiving, no matter what stage of the process you're in. Reach out to our team today to take the next step toward getting your loved one the support they deserve.
