When to Start the Conversation
How Families Begin the Care Journey
If you’re starting to wonder whether your loved one needs more support at home, you’re not alone. Many families face the same questions: Is it time? How do I bring it up? What kind of care is available—and how much will it cost?
At Brightwood, we believe that planning early leads to better outcomes. We’ve created this guide to help families like yours recognize when support is needed, open the conversation with empathy, and understand what to do next—before a crisis forces quick decisions.
Recognize the Signs
Many families wait until after a crisis. But the signs often appear earlier—subtle changes in health, safety, and routine.
Physical & Safety
Mobility issues: Trouble walking, rising, or unsteady balance
Falls or injury risk: Bruises, close calls, or recent accidents
Hygiene decline: Skipping showers, unchanged clothes, poor dental care
Medication problems: Missed doses, double dosing, or expired meds
Household neglect: Spoiled food, unpaid bills, or cluttered home
Cognitive & Emotional
Memory lapses: Forgetting appointments, getting lost, or repeating stories
Poor judgment: Giving money to strangers, leaving stove on, unsafe driving
Confusion: Trouble following conversations or simple decisions
Mood changes: Irritability, depression, or anxiety
Isolation: Avoiding friends or favorite activities
When to Seek Help
- Recent fall or close call
- Missed meals, medications, or appointments
- Struggles with bathing, dressing, or daily tasks
- Forgets names, places, or time of day
- Withdraws from friends or favorite activities
- Bills unpaid, mail unopened, or fridge empty
If some of these feel familiar, it’s likely time to explore care options. Early support can prevent emergencies and restore peace of mind for everyone involved.
Start the Conversation
Talking about care isn’t always easy. But with empathy and timing, it can bring your family closer.
Tips for a Thoughtful Talk
- Choose a calm moment—not during a crisis
- Use “I” statements: “I worry when I’m not here…”
- Ask open-ended questions:
“What would make you feel safer at home?” - Focus on goals: maintaining independence, staying home, feeling safe
Sample Starter Lines:
“Dad, I love you and want to make sure you’re supported at home.”
“Mom, I noticed it’s been harder to get around lately—can we talk about options?”
“You’ve taken care of us for years. Let us help take care of you now.”
Understand the Options
Knowing the difference between care types helps you make smart, confident decisions.
| Care Type | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| In-Home Supportive Care | Non-medical assistance with daily activities, companionship, light housekeeping | Seniors wanting help at home |
| Home Health | Skilled nursing or rehab at home (usually short-term) | Recovery after illness or hospitalization |
| Adult Day Programs | Group setting with meals, activities, and health monitoring | Seniors needing social stimulation or caregiver respite |
| Assisted Living | 24/7 care in a facility | Seniors who can't live safely at home |
| Nursing Home | Full medical care and supervision | Complex conditions needing round-the-clock care |
Once you're ready, here's what happens next.
See How Brightwood In-home Care Begins
Clarify Your Needs
Free In-Home Consultation
Personalized Care Plan
CarePro Matching
Ongoing Support
Need care urgently? In many cases, we can start within 24 hours.
BrightAssist™
is a discreet in-home virtual monitor that helps detect signs of concern and alerts our care team—optional and included at no extra charge.
Flexible Payment Options
We Make Paying for Care Simple
Brightwood accepts multiple funding sources to make care more accessible:
Private Pay
Long-Term Care Insurance
VA Benefits
Flexible Funding Solutions
Not sure what applies to you? We’re happy to walk you through your options and assist with coordination.
Which Care Type Is Right for You?
Essential Care
Premier Care
BrightAssist™
Still not sure what’s right for you or your loved one? We’re happy to talk it through—with no pressure.
Have Questions?
We know choosing in-home care comes with questions—whether you're seeking care for yourself or for someone you love.