Red Flags That An Older Loved One May Need Help

Asking for assistance isn’t easy. This is true at any age but is especially valid for older adults who are trying to maintain their independence. A loved one may try to shoulder burdens they aren’t confident they can handle because they don’t want to burden their families, friends, or neighbors. We’ve compiled some universal signs that an older adult in your life may need some extra help:  

Weight gain or loss:  If this is happening without a plan to alter their weight, it may be a sign that an older adult is struggling with mobility, depression, a poor diet, dementia, or any number of health concerns. 

Mood changes: If a loved one is exhibiting behavior that doesn’t represent their normal demeanor, this could be a red flag. Depression is common in older adults, with 20% of people over the age of 55 experiencing a mental health concern. Does your loved one have decreased energy?  No interest in the things that normally brought them joy? Are they acting differently toward family and friends? Their outlook is worth examining. 

Disarray at home:  When you visit, are you surprised to find clutter and mess? Laundry piles and dirty dishes are a clue that your loved one is struggling with household tasks. Check for expired food and neglected house projects like overgrown lawns, which are signs that they may be feeling overwhelmed. 

Bills that aren’t being paid on time:  A change in financial responsibility is another sign that things are in crisis.  Late payment notices or bounced checks can reveal an issue with keeping up with the monthly responsibilities. 

Medication issues: Is your loved one running out of prescribed medication before the end of their script? Or are there lots of pills left in the bottle? If so, they may be encountering challenges with metering out medication dosages. 

Having a conversation about senior care with an older loved one may feel difficult to approach, but it can result in relief for them as well as peace of mind for you and your family.  Working with a CarePatrol Senior Care Advisor is an effective strategy to help your loved one stay safe. We can help you pinpoint the amount of care they need and recommend the best care solutions based on preferences, health requirements, and budget. Our discovery process and network of over 20,000 pre-screened communities will help you make the right informed decision for your loved one. Our advisory services are available to your family at no cost. Reach out today for peace of mind tomorrow.