By Cheyenne Muhammad, RN, BSN
Administrator, Home Care Is Where the Heart Is
For more than 20 years, I’ve worked in healthcare in a variety of roles—from bedside nursing and
home health to case management, quality improvement, and healthcare administration. Throughout
my career, I’ve met countless families who wished they had recognized sooner that a loved one
needed additional support at home.
One thing I’ve learned is that the need for help rarely appears overnight. Most often, it happens
gradually.
An aging parent may seem fine during a quick phone call or holiday visit. They may insist they are
managing everything on their own. They may be fiercely independent and determined not to
become a burden to anyone.
Then something happens—a fall, a missed medication, or an unexpected hospitalization—and
family members suddenly find themselves in crisis mode. The reality is that there are often warning
signs long before a crisis occurs.
- Changes in Personal Appearance
Are clothes stained or worn repeatedly? Has grooming declined? Do they appear to be losing
weight unintentionally? Changes in personal appearance may indicate physical limitations, memory
concerns, depression, or difficulty managing daily tasks.
- The Refrigerator Tells a Story
Spoiled food, expired milk, very little food available, or reliance on processed meals can signal
difficulty shopping, cooking, or remembering to eat. Nutrition plays a major role in maintaining
strength, energy, balance, and overall health as we age.
- Missed Medications
Pill bottles accumulating, confusion about prescriptions, missed doses, or taking medications
incorrectly are common warning signs. Managing multiple prescriptions can become overwhelming
and may contribute to avoidable health complications.
- Increased Falls or Near Falls
Pay attention not only to actual falls but also to statements such as “I almost fell” or “I feel
unsteady.” These warning signs should never be ignored and may indicate a growing safety
concern. - The House Is Different
Stacks of unopened mail, laundry piling up, dishes accumulating, missed appointments, or unpaid
bills may indicate that everyday responsibilities are becoming more difficult to manage
independently.
The Conversation Families Avoid
The most productive conversations focus on safety and support rather than control. Instead of
saying, “You can’t live alone anymore,” try saying, “I’ve noticed a few things that concern me. How
can I help make things easier?”
My Perspective as a Nurse
I’ve spent much of my career helping patients navigate healthcare challenges, recover after illness,
and transition safely back to their homes. I’ve seen firsthand how a little assistance at the right time
can prevent unnecessary hospitalizations, reduce stress on family members, and help older adults
remain where they most want to be—at home.
The goal isn’t to take away independence. The goal is to preserve it.
When families recognize concerns early and put support in place before a crisis occurs, everyone
benefits.
About the Author
Cheyenne Muhammad, RN, BSN
Administrator, Home Care Is Where the Heart Is
Cheyenne is a registered nurse, veteran, and healthcare administrator with more than 20 years of
experience in acute care, home health, case management, quality improvement, and healthcare
leadership. Through her work, she has helped patients and families navigate complex healthcare
decisions while promoting safety, dignity, and independence at home.
Concerned About a Loved One?
If you’ve noticed some of these warning signs and aren’t sure what steps to take next, we’re here to
help. Whether your loved one needs occasional companionship, assistance with daily activities, or
more consistent support, Home Care Is Where the Heart Is can help you explore options that fit
your family’s needs