During the holiday season, we have the opportunity to visit senior loved ones, which can be eye-opening. It's a time when we may realize that our aging family members might struggle to live independently.
Recognizing these signs helps you know when your loved one may need in-home care for safety and well-being. Here's what we should be on the alert for when spending time with our elderly loved ones:
A Decline in Physical Health and Mobility
Look for noticeable weight loss or gain, which could signal issues with their diet or general health. Pay attention to any mobility issues, such as difficulty walking, frequent falls, or even hesitation in getting up from beds and chairs. These may be signs that senior loved ones need in-home care due to weakness or balance issues.
Also, observe any changes in personal hygiene or grooming habits. If older adults appear disheveled or is neglecting personal care tasks, it may be time to consider extra support.
Cognitive Changes
Do they seem less sharp these days? Memory loss or confusion might manifest as your loved one repeating themselves during conversations or struggling to follow along. Increased forgetfulness is another red flag.
Take note of missed appointments, misplaced items, inability to recall relevant names or events, or confusion about the date or time. These could be signs that aging is affecting their cognitive abilities and making daily tasks more challenging than before.
Emotional and Behavioral Changes
Emotional and behavioral changes often accompany aging and can suggest the need for additional care. You might notice older adults withdrawing from social activities or hobbies they once enjoyed.
Watch for mood changes like irritability or depression that may show they’re struggling. Anxiety or noticeable agitation might also be present, showing they're under stress or struggling with changes in their life.
Household Management Struggles
Pay attention to how well your loved one manages their daily responsibilities. Look around their home for signs of neglect in maintenance or cleanliness, such as untidy or cluttered spaces.
A pile of unopened mail or unpaid bills might indicate difficulties in managing their finances. Be sure to check their refrigerator and pantry. Expired food or an empty fridge could show they're neglecting meal preparation or struggling to shop for groceries regularly.
Safety Concerns
Some signs can clearly indicate that older adults may require supervision. Unexplained bruises or injuries can be a clear sign that they've had falls or accidents in the home. Additionally, as memory problems worsen, there is a greater chance of getting lost or wandering.
If your loved one is still driving, be aware of any recent accidents or driving issues. This could indicate that they are not safe on the road without assistance.
Need Help Looking After Your Senior Loved One?
If you've identified several of these indicators, it's time to consider in-home care options. Recognizing the signs that senior loved ones need in-home care and providing professional support can help them maintain independence while ensuring their health and safety.
When you notice any of these signs in seniors this winter, contact us at Senior Helpers San Jose for professional caregiving support in the San Jose, Santa Clara, Santa Cruz, and Campbell areas.