10 Signs someone  you love my need some help

As your parents grow older, you might begin to observe various signs of aging. The process of aging frequently brings about challenges that can impact the well-being and daily life of elderly individuals. Certain factors such as new medical conditions, recent surgeries or injuries, the management of multiple chronic illnesses, or general struggles with daily tasks as they get older may lead to them needing additional support. If you spot some of these then give us a call on 01903 495 456 and have a chat with our team for some advice and to book a FREE, no obligation, home care consultation to see how we may able to support you. 

Nobody understands your parents or relatives as well as you do. What seems unusual for them might be considered routine in another household. It would still be beneficial to be aware of the common signs that could indicate challenges and the necessity for support.

Whether you are regularly visiting your parent or keeping in touch through a video call, it's important to recognize the following warning signs that show your aging parent may need help:

1. Neglected personal hygiene. You may observe that your elderly parent is neglecting tasks like bathing, dental hygiene, or laundry. Additionally, they may appear dishevelled by wearing soiled or torn clothes, not grooming, etc.

2. A chaotic home. You might come across stacks of dirty dishes in the sink, clothes strewn across the floor, an unkempt bathroom, overflowing trash bags, or neglected garden maintenance.

3. A dangerous household. You might observe smoke detectors with missing batteries, expired fire extinguishers, malfunctioning appliances, tangled cords, and other safety hazards that haven't been addressed.

4. Poor financial management. Your parents might overlook bill payments, receive overdue notices, or deal with bounced checks due to financial disorganization.

5. Neglected vehicle upkeep. You might notice new dents or scratches on their car from accidents, a lack of routine maintenance, or ongoing issues that haven't been taken care of.

6. Poor nutrition and hydration. You might observe a lack of fresh groceries, consumption of expired food, decreased cooking, or changes in appetite leading to significant weight fluctuations. Items in the fridge and in cupboards may be passed their “use by” date and be mouldy. 

7.Changes in mood or behaviour. Your parent might start acting differently towards you or others and exhibit signs of depression, loneliness, or disinterest in activities they once enjoyed.

8. Lapses in memory or cognitive function. They could forget to take medications, update prescriptions, or attend medical appointments, and may experience confusion with basic tasks like shopping, laundry, driving, or operating a phone.

9. Difficulty with mobility. Your elderly parent may have trouble standing or sitting.

10. Unexplained marks or wounds. Look out for bruises, scratches, cuts, or indications of falls or accidents at home.

These are common indicators of ageing in an elderly individual. If these signs become noticeable in your aging parent, jotting down concerns can prove beneficial. Engaging your siblings or relatives in discussions can help determine the best approach for addressing the need for assistance to your elderly loved one.

Approaching this conversation with sensitivity and caution is essential since aging symptoms can be challenging to acknowledge, often accompanied by feelings of helplessness and loss. Seeking advice on how to broach the subject of needing help with an aging parent can facilitate the discussion. It is important to involve them in any conversations regarding potential care options for the future.

Here at Aurora we are not just dedicated to supporting older people in the community we are also dedicated to supporting their families and the people they love. Please give us a call on 01903 495456. If you have any questions, or need a hand before having this difficult conversation with your family, we would be delighted to help. You can also book a FREE, no obligation, care consultation with us. As well as providing traditional personal care we can also support with companionship and home help around the house. 

For more information about having this difficult Age UK offers some excellent advice https://www.ageuk.org.uk/information-advice/worried-about-someone/