Signs That an Older Adult Needs Help
January 30, 2025
The holidays are often when we gather with loved ones, whether in our homes here in Olympia or with a far-away relative. Sometimes, these annual visits are when we notice that some of our family members are not faring as well as we may have hoped. As our loved ones age, our concern for their well-being and independence naturally increases. Maintaining autonomy is often a priority for them, but certain signs might suggest they need support to ensure their safety and quality of life. Early recognition of these signs is key to providing necessary care. Here are 10 warning signs:
1. Changes in personal hygiene: Noticeable decline in grooming habits, such as unkempt hair, wearing dirty clothes, or body odor, could indicate difficulties with self-care.
âIf your loved one typically dresses well and showers daily, but you notice they’re no longer doing soâor if they’re expressing a reluctance to keep up with their usual routineâit could be a sign that theyâre struggling with self-care,” said Fieldstone of Olympia Community Relations Director Tara Harton. “Similarly, if their personal care products are being stored in odd places or their medications seem disorganized, it may be time to step in and assess their ability to manage these tasks. At Fieldstone, we treat every resident with the highest level of dignity, honoring their individual preferences and taking input from loved ones seriously. Whether it’s ensuring their hair is styled just the way they like or helping with their daily routine, we’re here to support them in the way that feels most comfortable and respectful.â
2. Unexplained injuries: Be alert to any unexplained marks or wounds, which may be signs of falls or accidents that they are reluctant to mention.
3. Forgetfulness and memory loss: While occasional memory lapses are common, frequent forgetfulness or the inability to recall important dates or repetitive questioning might signal cognitive issues. For someone not familiar with the symptoms of cognitive decline, it can be hard to know the difference.
Harton encourages trusting your instincts when it comes to a loved one with dementia. “If you notice them asking for breakfast at lunchtime, misplacing things more often, having difficulty recognizing familiar items, or getting confused about the time of day, these could be signs that itâs time to consult a health care provider,” she explained.
4. Unpaid bills and financial issues: Unfortunately, falling victim to financial scams is often one of the first signs of cognitive decline. Look for signs like unpaid bills, overdue payment notices, or piles of unopened mail. Challenges with financial management or unusual spending could suggest itâs time to help manage their finances.
5. Changes in mood or behavior: Watch for significant shifts in mood or behavior, including increased irritability, social withdrawal, or symptoms of depression, which could indicate physical or emotional distress.
As individuals, we come to know our loved ones deeply and understand their typical behaviors,â said Harton. âWhen you have a clear sense of who they are, it becomes quite apparent when something feels off or out of character.â
6. Decline in physical mobility: Observe any difficulty they have in moving around independently. Trouble walking, an unsteady gait, or reluctance to go out might indicate mobility issues or a fear of falling, which can exacerbate health declines due to decreased activity.
âIf you find a loved one at home struggling with mobility, it’s important to adapt activities to their abilities while ensuring safety and comfort,â she explained. âFor someone in the early stages of dementia, simple exercises like walking or light stretching might still be manageable with minimal help. As mobility challenges increase, you can modify activities to be easier, like short, supported walks or chair exercises. For later stages, sensory activities, like music or gentle movements, can be calming and help maintain some physical function. The goal is to keep them as active as possible while avoiding frustration, and making sure they stay safe and engaged.â
7. Spoiled food in the refrigerator: Expired or spoiled food in their home can suggest they are struggling with grocery shopping or meal preparation, pointing to potential nutritional concerns.
8. Neglected household maintenance: Signs like clutter, unsorted mail, or lack of cleanliness can show difficulties in managing household chores, possibly due to declining physical or cognitive health.
9. Isolation and withdrawal: If your loved one avoids social interactions or has stopped participating in previously enjoyed activities, it could be a sign of loneliness or depression.
10. Medication mismanagement: Ensure they manage their medication properly; look for signs like missed doses or confusion over prescriptions, which can pose serious health risks.
If you observe any of these signs, approach your loved one with compassion and understanding. Itâs important to recognize that needing assistance in our older years is not a personal failure. Many people can thrive in assisted living or memory care communities.
“When the barriers to self-care are removed, people can truly thrive,” said Harton. These barriers often include tasks like home maintenance, housekeeping, managing nutrition, and even taking care of personal care needsâareas that Fieldstone of Olympia prioritizes.
“Weâre dedicated to ensuring that our residentâs dining experience is not only high-quality but also tailored to meet the specific nutritional needs of each individual,” Harton continued. In addition to nutrition, Fieldstone provides assistance with personal care and self-care, helping residents maintain dignity and independence.
âWe also focus on creating a supportive environment for social engagement, comfort, and overall well-being, enabling residents to live as fully and independently as possible.â
Initiate open discussions about your observations and express your readiness to help them find appropriate solutions. Options might include hiring in-home care services, arranging regular visits from family members or caregivers, or considering transitions to assisted living or long-term care communities.
Prioritizing the well-being of your loved one means acknowledging when they might need assistance and taking proactive steps to ensure they receive the appropriate care and support. By remaining attentive and responsive to their changing needs, you can help preserve their dignity, independence, and quality of life.