Signs That an Older Adult Needs Help
January 31, 2025
The holidays are often when we gather with loved ones, whether in our homes here in Silverdale 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.
“Changes in hygiene or personal appearance are very unique to the person,” explained Nettie Martini, Sales and Marketing Director at Fieldstone of Silverdale. “If someone has always been very particular about her hair and makeup, it would be out of character for her to have messy hair.”
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. People who are unfamiliar with cognitive decline may struggle to understand what is normal memory loss and what is not.
“If someone is not remembering things that you’ve brought up, such as a recent trip you went on, or if they are telling you the same story over and over—that could be a cause for concern,” explained Community Relations Director Ashley Campoy.
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 it’s 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.
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.
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.
“Weight loss can be another red flag,” Martini said. “Are they not eating because they aren’t hungry? Or do they need help preparing food?” Campoy added that improper hydration can lead to urinary tract infections, risking complications and even hospitalization.
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. It’s 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.
“Maintenance is always available here,” Martini said. “Whether it’s unclogging a toilet or fixing the television when you push the wrong button, we are here for our residents 24/7.”
If you are seeing signs that a loved one needs help, initiate open discussions about your observations and express your readiness to help them find 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.