How Can You Tell When an Elderly Loved One Needs Extra Care?

It can be difficult to recognize when an aging parent or loved one needs additional support, especially when changes happen gradually. Noticing the subtle shifts in daily routines and overall wellbeing is the first step toward ensuring your loved one receives the care he or she needs. This guide outlines key indicators that suggest it might be time to consider more support.

Changes in Physical Health

A decrease in physical health is often one of the most apparent signs that more care is necessary. Keep an eye out for noticeable changes that could indicate underlying health issues or an inability to manage daily life safely.

• Significant weight loss or gain – Unexpected changes in weight can signal poor nutrition, difficulty with meal preparation, or other health problems.

• Worsening chronic conditions – If conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or arthritis seem to be managed less effectively, it may be a sign your loved one needs help with medication reminders or daily health routines.
• Increased falls or bruising – Unexplained bruises or frequent falls are serious red flags that point to mobility issues, weakness, or environmental hazards in the home.

There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to manage if they are supported by professional home care Oklahoma City families can trust. At Lifestar Home Care, our expertly trained caregivers are here to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.

Neglect of Personal Hygiene and Home

A decline in personal grooming and home maintenance can be a strong indicator of physical or cognitive challenges. When standards of cleanliness slip, it often means daily tasks have become too difficult to handle alone.

• Poor personal care – Infrequent bathing, unkempt hair, body odor, or wearing dirty clothes can suggest the physical act of personal hygiene has become overwhelming.
• Cluttered or unsanitary home – Piles of mail, unwashed dishes, spoiled food in the refrigerator, or a general state of disarray can point to a decreased ability to keep up with household chores.

Shifts in Mood and Mental State

Emotional and cognitive changes are just as important as physical ones. Pay attention to shifts in your loved one’s personality or mental sharpness, as these can be signs of depression, anxiety, or cognitive decline.

• Social withdrawal – A loss of interest in hobbies, friendships, or family activities can be a sign of depression or isolation.

• Memory lapses – While some forgetfulness is normal, repeatedly asking the same questions, missing appointments, or getting lost in familiar places could indicate a more serious cognitive issue.
• Mood swings – Unusual irritability, anxiety, or emotional flatness can signal mental health challenges or cognitive changes.

Cognitive decline and mental health issues may be a sign you need to have your loved one evaluated for dementia. Caring for seniors with dementia can be challenging for family caregivers. Luckily, there is dementia care Oklahoma City families can rely on. Professional dementia caregivers help seniors with dementia stay safe and comfortable at home by preventing wandering, providing cognitive stimulation, and assisting with household chores. 

Financial and Medication Mishandling

Difficulty managing finances and medications can have serious consequences. These are often subtle signs but are critical to notice early.

• Unpaid bills or financial confusion – A stack of unopened bills, calls from collection agencies, or unusual purchases can indicate your loved one is having difficulty managing his or her finances.
• Medication errors – Finding unopened pill bottles or, conversely, empty ones that shouldn’t be suggests your loved one may be forgetting to take medication or is taking incorrect doses. This can pose a significant health risk.

Some seniors only require help with a few daily tasks so they can maintain their independence. However, those living with serious illnesses may need more extensive assistance. Luckily, there is professional live-in care Oklahoma City seniors can rely on. Home can be a safer and more comfortable place for your loved one to live with the help of an expertly trained and dedicated around-the-clock caregiver. Seniors can benefit from assistance with meal prep, bathing, transportation to the doctor’s office, medication reminders, and much more. If your loved one needs professional care, Lifestar Home Care is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.