Our parents cared for us for many years. As they grow older, many families in Kenya face the same question: how do we make sure they are safe and well, especially when we are busy with work, living in another town or even abroad?

Needing help is a normal part of ageing. It does not mean losing independence. The right support at home often helps older people stay independent for longer. Here are five signs that it may be time to consider home care.

1. Falls, near-falls or new bruises

Have you noticed your parent holding on to furniture, walking more slowly or having unexplained bruises? Falls are one of the most common reasons older people end up in hospital. Slippery bathrooms, poor lighting and weak muscles all increase the risk.

A caregiver can help with walking, bathing and moving safely around the house, and a physiotherapist can suggest exercises to improve balance.

2. Missed or mixed-up medicines

Many older people take several medicines for conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes or arthritis. Look out for:

full pill boxes when they should be empty
prescriptions that have run out without being refilled
confusion about which tablet to take and when

Missing doses, or taking too many, can be dangerous. Medication reminders and regular nurse visits can help keep treatment on track.

3. Changes in eating, weight or hygiene

Is the fridge almost empty, or full of spoiled food? Has your parent lost weight? Are they wearing the same clothes for days, or skipping baths? These changes can be signs of tiredness, pain, low mood or memory problems. They can also mean that daily tasks have simply become too hard.

Help with cooking, bathing and dressing, given with respect and patience, can make a big difference to health and dignity.

4. Memory problems or confusion

Everyone forgets things sometimes. But repeated questions, getting lost in familiar places, forgetting to switch off the gas or leaving the gate open at night are signs to take seriously. It is a good idea to visit a doctor for a proper check-up, as some causes of confusion can be treated.

A trained caregiver can provide supervision, routine and companionship, which helps both safety and wellbeing.

5. Loneliness and withdrawal

When friends pass on or children move away, many older people become lonely. You may notice that your parent no longer goes to church, the chama or to visit neighbours, or that they seem sad and quiet on the phone. Loneliness affects both mental and physical health.

A regular caregiver offers company, conversation and encouragement to stay active and connected.

How to talk to your parent about care

Start the conversation early, gently and with love. Focus on what they want: staying at home, keeping their routine, feeling safe. Involve them in choosing the type of help and the caregiver. Many families begin with a few hours a week and increase support over time.

It also helps to talk with siblings so everyone agrees on the plan and shares the cost fairly.

How Sahlan Home Care can help

Our trained caregivers and nurses support older people across Nairobi with daily living, mobility, medication and companionship, and they keep the family updated. Every care plan is tailored, so we will talk with you first and suggest what fits your parent’s needs.

This article is general information and not medical advice. If you are worried about your parent’s health, please consult a doctor.