Signs to Look Out For This Holiday Season: Ensuring Your Loved Ones’ Well-Being

As we come together for the holiday season, it’s a wonderful opportunity to connect with family and create cherished memories. It’s also the perfect time to quietly assess the health and well-being of our elderly loved ones. The comfort of being home can sometimes reveal subtle changes that go unnoticed over the phone or through video calls. Taking a few moments to observe can make a significant difference in their safety and independence.

Signs to Look Out For This Holiday Season

It’s not always easy to recognize the early indicators that a loved one might need extra support. From physical changes to cognitive shifts, these signs can sometimes be so subtle that we overlook them in the joy of the season. Knowing what to look for can help you determine whether they might benefit from additional care or even a simple conversation to check in on their needs.

Helpful Guide: Signs to Look Out For in Seniors

Physical Appearance and Hygiene

• Weight Changes: Sudden weight gain or loss could indicate health issues or difficulty managing meals.
• Neglected Hygiene: Unkempt appearance or changes in personal hygiene might reflect struggles with self-care.
• Inappropriate Clothing: Wearing clothes unsuited for the weather may suggest memory issues or difficulty dressing.

Mobility and Physical Health

• Balance and Coordination Issues: Struggling to stand or frequent stumbles can signal a need for mobility support.
• Unexplained Bruises or Injuries: Bruises may indicate falls or difficulty moving safely around the home.
• Limited Strength or Dexterity: Difficulty in tasks like opening jars or using utensils suggests physical decline.

Cognitive Changes

• Memory Loss: Frequently forgetting conversations or misplacing items may signal cognitive decline.
• Confusion with Time or Place: Losing track of dates or surroundings could be an early sign of dementia.
• Poor Judgment or Decision-Making: Unusual financial decisions or poor judgment can indicate cognitive challenges.

Mood and Social Engagement

• Social Isolation: Withdrawing from social activities can point to mental health concerns.
• Mood Swings or Depression: Irritability or sadness may signal underlying mental health issues.
• Lack of Interest in Hobbies: Reduced enthusiasm for routine activities may indicate depression or cognitive shifts.

Home Environment

• Clutter or Cleanliness: A messy home could suggest difficulty with housekeeping or reduced energy.
• Expired or Unused Food: Expired items in the kitchen may mean irregular or unsafe eating habits.
• Neglected Bills or Paperwork: Stacks of unopened mail might reveal struggles with managing finances.

Medication Management

• Missed Doses: Forgetting medication can have serious health consequences.
• Medication Confusion: Uncertainty about prescriptions could indicate cognitive or vision issues.
• Outdated or Incorrect Medications: Ensure medications are current and taken as prescribed.

Need Help? We’re Here for You

If any of these signs resonate with you during your holiday visit, TOTALCARE Living is here to support you and your loved ones. Our professional team provides comprehensive evaluations to assess seniors’ needs and ensure they receive the right care. Contact us today to arrange an assessment and enjoy peace of mind, knowing your loved ones are safe and supported.

To find out more about our Dementia Care, click here.