When an Elderly Parent Starts Struggling With Everyday Tasks While Living Alone

My mother has been living alone in Portland for several years, and she has always been proud of managing everything herself. Recently, I have started noticing small changes that are making me concerned about her safety and independence. She sometimes forgets to turn off the stove, struggles to carry groceries inside, and has missed a few appointments because she lost track of the time. She insists that everything is fine and gets upset whenever I suggest that she might need some help at home. I live nearby, but my work schedule makes it difficult to visit every day, prepare her meals, and check whether she has taken care of her daily responsibilities. I do not want to make her feel that she is losing control over her life, but I also worry that one small accident could lead to a serious problem. I have started looking into home care Portland options because I wonder whether having a caregiver visit for a few hours each day could provide the right balance between safety and independence. Ideally, someone could help with meal preparation, light housekeeping, grocery shopping, and companionship while allowing my mother to continue living in her familiar surroundings. I am also curious about how families usually introduce this kind of support without making an older parent feel uncomfortable or pressured. For those who have faced a similar situation, what worked best for your family? Did you begin with occasional visits and gradually increase the support, or did you arrange regular assistance from the beginning? I would really appreciate hearing about your experiences, especially how you helped your parent accept a little extra help without feeling that their independence was being taken away.