10 Signs Your Elderly Parent Needs Help

As we age, our family members may show signs of decline, such as poor hygiene, difficulty managing finances or their home, or unexplained injuries. These signs can vary from person to person, so it's crucial to be vigilant. Although what seems unusual to others may be normal for your parents, it's still important to recognize common warning signs that may indicate a need for in-home senior care. Amy's Helping Hands offers experienced caregivers to assist in such situations.

1. Mismanaged Medications

Many aging loved ones take more than one medication, which can cause harm if the medication is not taken as directed.  Some signs that your parents are not taking their medications correctly are:

• Pills on the floor: Finding loose pills outside of their designated containers.
• Expired or discontinued medications: Holding onto old medications that are no longer needed or effective.
• Incorrect dosage: Taking the wrong amount of medication, especially if the prescription has been recently changed.
• Failure to refill: Not getting necessary medications refilled on time.
• Disorganized pill organizer: Having a pill organizer that is not up-to-date or is poorly organized.

2. Poor Hygiene

Poor hygiene can manifest in various ways, including body odor, unwashed clothes, and bad breath. These signs often indicate that an individual is struggling with self-care and may require assistance with daily hygiene tasks. This could be due to declining mobility, depression, or other health issues.

It's important to address poor hygiene as it can pose health risks. For instance, neglecting personal hygiene after using the toilet or infrequent bathing can increase the risk of infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs) and skin breakdown, particularly in older adults.

3. A Messy House

The state of your aging loved one's home can offer clues about their physical and mental well-being. Unwashed dishes, dirty bathrooms, and scattered laundry can all be red flags. Here are some specific things to look out for:

• Stained furniture and odors may indicate incontinence issues.
• Spoiled food in the fridge could be a sign of memory loss or depression.
• A pile of dirty laundry might mean they're struggling with physical tasks.
• No laundry to do may mean they're wearing the same clothes repeatedly.

If you've noticed any of these signs, your loved one might benefit from in-home care. Our caregivers can assist with daily tasks to help maintain a clean and healthy living environment.

4. Mismanaged Finances

Difficulty paying bills is a common and often overlooked sign that your aging parents may need assistance managing their finances. This can stem from a variety of factors, ranging from physical limitations and cognitive decline to challenges adapting to new technologies. Recognizing these signs early on is crucial to preventing further financial hardship and ensuring their well-being.

• Missed or Late Payments: Unpaid bills, late fees, and collection notices can be indicative of financial difficulties.
• Accumulating Debt: Increasing credit card balances, unpaid loans, or overdrafts can signal a lack of financial control.
• Unusual Bank Activity: Unexplained withdrawals, large purchases, or changes in account beneficiaries may be cause for concern.
• Disorganized Finances: Difficulty locating important documents, unpaid bills, or bank statements can indicate a need for assistance.
• Confusion or Anxiety About Finances: If your parents express confusion, anxiety, or denial about their financial situation, it's time to intervene.

Remember, seeking help is not a sign of weakness but a proactive step towards ensuring financial security and peace of mind for both you and your aging parents. By addressing these challenges head-on, you can help them navigate the complexities of financial management and maintain their independence for as long as possible.

5. Unsafe Driving

The physical condition of your parents' car, including the presence of dents, scratches, or other signs of wear and tear, can offer insights into their driving abilities and potential safety concerns. While not a definitive indicator, these factors can prompt further evaluation of their cognitive and physical capabilities, including vision, reaction time, and overall awareness on the road.

In-home care services can provide a valuable solution by offering a safe and dependable alternative to driving. Trained professionals can assist with various daily tasks, such as grocery shopping, meal preparation, medication management, and transportation to appointments. This eliminates the need for your parents to drive, reducing the risk of accidents and promoting their overall well-being.

6. Unhealthy Eating Habits

Having proper nutrition at any age is important, especially as we age. Here are a few signs that your loved ones are not getting the proper nutrition they need.

Signs Your Senior Loved One May Need Meal Assistance

• Spoiled food in the refrigerator
• Little to no food in the refrigerator or pantry
• Prepared meals going uneaten
• Unintentional weight loss or gain
• Changes in appetite (e.g., picking at food or eating more than usual)
• Reliance on processed or fast food for most meals

Our caregivers Amy's Helping Hands will be able to assist you with a meal plan that is specialized for your loved ones needs. 

7. Mood Changes or Mood Swings

Sudden shifts in mood or personality in older adults can be caused by underlying medical conditions, medication side effects, or other treatable factors. Infections, changes in blood sugar, and urinary tract infections (UTIs) are some examples. It's crucial to monitor for changes and consult a doctor if you notice significant mood swings, especially following the introduction of new medications. Prompt medical attention can identify and address potential causes, ensuring the well-being of your loved ones.

8. Forgetfulness or Confusion

Several cognitive and behavioral changes may suggest the onset of dementia in older adults. These changes often manifest in daily activities and interactions, and while they can be subtle initially, they gradually become more noticeable as the condition progresses.It is important to note that these signs can also be caused by other medical conditions or medications. Therefore, it is crucial to consult a physician for a thorough evaluation if any of these changes are observed in a senior. Early diagnosis and intervention can help manage symptoms, slow the progression of dementia, and improve the quality of life for both the senior and their family.

9. Mobility Issues

Mobility issues can impact daily activities for seniors. Early indicators of decreased mobility may include:

• Changes in gait, such as shuffling
• Stooped posture while walking
• Appearing unsteady or at risk of falling
• Relying on furniture for support when moving around

Amy's Helping Hands caregivers can assist your loved ones with mobility and ensure they have the necessary equipment to move safely around their home.

10. Unexplained Bruises or Injuries

Unexplained injuries, such as bruises, cuts, or burns, can be a red flag for elder abuse. Other warning signs include sudden changes in behavior, withdrawal from social activities, and fear of a particular caregiver. If you suspect that a loved one is being abused, it's crucial to report it to the appropriate authorities, such as Adult Protective Services.

Beyond recognizing the signs of abuse, it's also essential to be aware of the challenges that aging can bring. As our loved ones age, they may require additional support with daily activities, managing their health, and maintaining their independence. Amy's Helping Hands can provide a personalized care plan to address these needs, offering services such as:

• Personal Care: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and other essential daily activities.
• Companionship: Providing social interaction and emotional support to combat loneliness and isolation.
• Meal Preparation: Preparing nutritious meals and ensuring dietary needs are met.
• Medication Reminders: Helping to manage medications and ensure they are taken as prescribed.
• Light Housekeeping: Maintaining a clean and safe living environment.
• Transportation: Assisting with errands, appointments, and social outings.

By working together, we can ensure that our aging loved ones receive the care and support they need to live with dignity and respect. Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Amy's Helping Hands is here to provide compassionate and reliable care, giving you peace of mind and allowing your loved ones to age comfortably in place.