What Changes Should You Watch for in Older Family Members?

As our loved ones age, it becomes more important to keep an eye on changes in their health and daily routines. Subtle shifts can be indicators that their safety or well-being is at risk. Here’s what to look out for:

1. Decline in Personal Hygiene

If your loved one has always taken care in their appearance and suddenly appears disheveled or unkempt, it might be a sign of a bigger issue. A decrease in personal hygiene—such as skipping showers, neglecting oral care, or wearing the same clothes—could suggest depression, dementia, or physical difficulties that make self-care more challenging.

2. Unexpected Weight Loss

Even if your loved one seems to have a good appetite, significant weight loss without any effort can be a red flag. Weight loss may be a sign of trouble preparing meals, changes in taste or appetite, or even something more serious, like a health condition such as cancer or digestive problems.

3. Missed Medications

If they use a pill organizer, take a moment to check if they’re keeping up with their medications. Missing doses or taking the wrong amounts could be a sign of memory loss, confusion, or difficulty managing their health. Also, checking prescription bottles for dosage instructions can give you a clearer picture of their adherence.

4. Changes in Mobility

Changes in mobility can be a clear sign that something’s wrong. Does your loved one seem unsteady when walking, or have they had a recent fall? Bruises or injuries may suggest that a fall occurred. Also, pay attention to how they get up from a chair or couch—if it takes longer than usual or seems difficult, it could be time to reassess their mobility.

5. The Condition of Their Home

The way their home is kept can provide insight into their well-being. If you notice burn marks on pans or unattended food, it may be a sign they’re forgetting about cooking or have trouble managing tasks in the kitchen. A messy or cluttered home could indicate struggles with housekeeping, which might point to cognitive decline or other issues. Make sure lights are working, the temperature is comfortable, bathrooms are clean, and pathways are clear to avoid safety hazards.

What to Do If You Notice Red Flags

If you observe any of these changes, the first step is to talk to their doctor as soon as possible. While it can be easy to put off dealing with health concerns, catching problems early can prevent them from worsening. Addressing issues sooner rather than later can make a significant difference in their quality of life.

If your loved one is finding it difficult to manage on their own, in-home care might be the perfect solution. At Care and Comfort, LLC Home Care, we offer tailored in-home services to help older adults live safely and independently in the comfort of their own homes. Our experienced caregivers provide essential support while empowering seniors to maintain control over their daily lives.

Our services include:

• Laundry and light housekeeping

• Companionship to combat loneliness and isolation

• Assistance with mobility and transfers

• Meal preparation with healthy and balanced options

• Transportation to appointments and outings

• And much more!

With the right support, your loved one can continue living independently and safely in their own home.