7 Key Signs Your Aging Loved Ones May Need Help at Home

Do Your Aging Loved Ones Need Help at Home?

When you last visited your aging parents, did something feel off? Maybe there were stains on your mom’s clothes, your dad seemed glued to his recliner, or you noticed spoiled food in the fridge.

These seemingly small details can be significant red flags, indicating that your loved ones may need extra help to live safely and comfortably at home.

As Sierra Goetz, operations director at the HomeCare Advocacy Network (HCAN), explains, “Admitting you need help isn’t easy for most seniors. They want to remain in their own homes for as long as possible, so they’ll often downplay or hide any signs that threaten their independence.”

Since your loved ones might not ask for help, it’s crucial to understand the warning signs. If you’re visiting during the holidays or any other time, keep an eye out for the following:

Struggling with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)

Activities of daily living, or ADLs, include essential self-care tasks like bathing, dressing, eating, toileting, and mobility. If your loved one struggles with any of these, it could be time for additional help. For example:

• Difficulty transferring from their bed or chair
• Trouble maintaining personal hygiene
• Inconsistent eating habits

Neglecting Household Chores

A cluttered, disorganized home can signify a senior is overwhelmed. Watch for these signs:

• Stacks of unopened mail or unpaid bills
• Spoiled or expired food in the fridge
• Unfilled prescriptions or misplaced medications
• Stained carpets, furniture, or unmaintained outdoor areas

Changes in Appearance

Unexplained weight loss, dirty clothing, or poor grooming habits can indicate trouble with meal preparation, shopping, or personal hygiene. If your loved one appears disheveled or malnourished, it’s worth investigating further.

Cognitive Decline or Memory Issues

It’s often tricky to distinguish between normal age-related forgetfulness and early signs of dementia. Look for these cognitive red flags:

• Difficulty completing familiar tasks
• Increased confusion or short-term memory loss
• Poor judgment or decision-making
• Mood swings or withdrawal from family interactions

Behavioral Changes

Persistent sadness, agitation, or lack of motivation can be signs of depression. Other indicators include:

• Loss of interest in hobbies or activities
• Sleeping excessively or having difficulty keeping track of time
• Reduced communication with friends and family

What To Do If You Notice These Signs

Seeing one or more of these signs doesn’t mean your loved one needs to move to assisted living. Instead, it may indicate they need some help at home to maintain their quality of life.

“Whether it’s for just a few hours a week or 24/7 care, HCAN’s professional caregivers are here to help,” Goetz says. “From companionship to dementia care, we provide personalized support that allows your loved one to remain happy, healthy, and independent.”

How HCAN Can Help

If you’re concerned about your loved one’s safety or wellbeing, don’t wait to seek help. With trained caregivers offering everything from housekeeping to personal care, HCAN ensures seniors can age gracefully at home while giving families peace of mind.

Learn more about how to start the care conversation with your aging loved ones.

Want more information on our customized care plans? Contact your local HCAN-supported office today!