As our parents grow older, it can sometimes be difficult to determine when they may need care support. Many elderly people are fiercely independent and reluctant to ask for assistance, even when they may be struggling. As their children, it’s important to be vigilant and recognise the subtle signs that they may need additional support, especially as winter and the holiday season can bring extra challenges.
Here are some key indicators that your parent might need care support.
1. Decline in Personal Hygiene or Grooming
If your parent is neglecting their personal hygiene or grooming habits, it may be a sign that they are struggling with daily tasks. Difficulty bathing, brushing teeth, or keeping up with regular grooming could indicate physical or cognitive challenges, which might require additional help.
2. Increased Forgetfulness or Confusion
Everyone forgets things from time to time, but if your parent’s forgetfulness is becoming more frequent or noticeable, it may be a sign of cognitive decline. Forgetting appointments, losing track of time, or having trouble remembering familiar faces can all point to early signs of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. It’s important to take these changes seriously and seek professional advice.
3. Unexplained Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition
A sudden drop in weight or lack of appetite can be a red flag. It may indicate that your parent is struggling to prepare meals or losing interest in eating. This could also be a sign of depression, loneliness, or physical illness. A decrease in nutritional intake can lead to further health complications, so it’s essential to address this issue promptly.
4. Difficulty with Mobility or Balance
If your parent is having trouble moving around, walking, or balancing, it’s crucial to take note. Increased falls or the inability to get in and out of bed, chairs, or the bathroom can put your parent at risk of injury. If they are becoming increasingly dependent on walking aids or asking for help getting around, additional support may be necessary.
5. Neglecting Household Responsibilities
Older adults often take pride in their homes, but if your parent is starting to neglect chores like cleaning, laundry, or maintaining their home, it could signal that they are finding these tasks too overwhelming. Piles of unopened mail, unwashed dishes, or a messy home can indicate they are no longer able to manage day-to-day responsibilities on their own.
6. Changes in Mood or Behaviour
Changes in mood, such as increased irritability, sadness, or withdrawal from social activities, can indicate underlying health concerns, such as depression or anxiety. If your parent seems more withdrawn than usual, especially if they’re avoiding social interactions or becoming anxious or agitated, it’s important to assess whether they may benefit from care support in the form of emotional support or companionship.
7. Increased Isolation or Loneliness
If your parent is becoming more isolated or withdrawing from social activities, it may be a sign that they are feeling lonely or disconnected. This is particularly important during the colder months, when many elderly people experience increased isolation. Regular companionship and social engagement can help alleviate these feelings and improve their overall mental health.
8. Failure to Manage Medication
Missing doses or forgetting to take medication can have serious consequences on your parent’s health. If you notice their medication is not being taken regularly or correctly, it could be a sign that they are having difficulty managing it themselves. In this case, extra help may be needed to ensure they are following their treatment plan.
9. Changes in Driving Habits or Safety Concerns
If your parent’s driving habits have changed, such as becoming more cautious, forgetting directions, or getting into minor accidents, it may be time to discuss their ability to drive safely. If they are unwilling to give up the car keys, it might be necessary to find alternative ways for them to get around.
10. Health Complaints That Are Left Unaddressed
If your parent is frequently complaining of pain or discomfort but isn’t taking steps to address it, it could signal physical or cognitive decline. Whether it’s joint pain, headaches, or unexplained aches, it’s important to encourage your parent to seek medical attention or help them make appointments if they are struggling.
What to Do If You Recognise These Signs
If you’ve noticed any of these signs, it’s crucial to have an open and compassionate conversation with your parent. While it may be difficult for them to admit they need help, approaching the topic gently and offering solutions can make the process easier.
In some cases, the care support they need may be in the form of regular visits or help with household chores. In other cases, they may benefit from professional care. If you’re unsure of how to proceed, a professional caregiver can assess the situation and recommend a course of action. Companion care services, in particular, can provide both physical assistance and emotional support, improving your parent’s quality of life and giving you peace of mind.
At Care in Kent, we offer a range of care support in the form of private homecare and companion care services tailored to meet the individual needs of your loved ones. If you’re concerned that your parent may need extra support, our team is here to provide the care they deserve, helping them live safely and comfortably in their own home.
Get in touch to discuss care support options today.