It can be hard to see your loved ones get older, and you are likely to find yourself worrying about them. Whether it is your parents, aunt, uncle, or a family friend, there are a few signs that you will want to look out for that could indicate that they need some form of care. They may not be forthcoming and could even try to conceal some of the issues that they are having, so it is important to know what the signs are that they might need care. Here are a few telltale signs that an elderly person is struggling.
Messy home
One of the most obvious signs is a messy home, especially if they are usually a tidy person. Many elderly people find it hard to keep on top of household chores as they get older, particularly if mobility is an issue. This is why it is a good idea to visit them at home from time to time.
Poor personal hygiene
Another clear indicator is poor personal hygiene. If they have body odor, greasy hair, unwashed clothes, bad breath, or untrimmed nails, then it might mean that they need some help with washing and dressing.
Weight loss
Weight loss can be concerning in elderly people. While people often lose weight as they get older, which is not always a sign of a problem, sometimes it can be an issue. Unexplained weight loss could be due to a health issue that needs to be addressed, or it could be because they are struggling at home, whether this is being able to cook or buying food.
Memory problems
Memory problems can also indicate that someone needs care, especially if they start to forget important details or become confused. While some memory problems are normal as people get older, sometimes it can indicate a more serious issue, and they may need to get a diagnosis and possibly memory care at some point.
Cuts and bruises
People tend to bruise easier as they get older, and sometimes this is not an issue, but if your loved one often has unexplained cuts and bruises, then this could indicate that they need care. This is because they might have fallen or hurt themselves while carrying out a regular daily activity. This could be dangerous if they are alone, so you might want to look into care if they are unsafe at home. If they live alone, a live in carer would be ideal as they can provide 24/7 supervision. You can use a live in care company to find a carer that will be a good match and able to provide personalised care.
Reliance on loved ones
Another sign that an aging loved one could benefit from care is if they are becoming increasingly reliant on family and friends. If they rely on people for their day-to-day activities, it might be better to find some form of care – you do not want the relationship to change and feel that they have become a burden.
These are a few signs to look out for that could indicate that your loved one would benefit from some kind of care.
Tim Williamson, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
