As our parents age, their needs can change, often in subtle ways that are easy to overlook. Recognizing the 10 signs your elderly parent needs help is essential when you want to make sure they're not only healthy but safe.
From changes in personal hygiene to difficulties managing finances, these signs can indicate that additional support is necessary. By staying vigilant and identifying these early indicators, you can take proactive steps to secure extra elder care assistance.
Explore our comprehensive guide to understand these signs and learn how to respond effectively to support your loved ones through their golden years.
Neglecting personal hygiene can be one of the first signs your parent needs care. As people age, they may struggle with physical tasks like bathing or dressing. Pay attention to signs like:
These changes often stem from physical difficulty or a lack of motivation. Both are important to address.
Your senior may not view personal hygiene as particularly important. That means you may need to have a few delicate conversations on what can be a sensitive subject.
A well-kept home often reflects the state of a person's health. At a minimum, it shows a person is still capable of managing daily tasks. If you notice a decline in home maintenance, it could be one of the signs your parent needs care.
Look for the following clues that your parent is having trouble maintaining their home:
These are a few elderly care indicators that might suggest that your parent is struggling with household chores. It may be time to consider moving into an independent living community like The Watermark at Westwood Village.
Difficulty managing finances can signal age-related health issues like cognitive decline. Watch for unopened mail, late payment notices, or disorganized financial paperwork.
Mismanagement of finances can lead to serious problems, including missed payments and potential scams.
Many caregivers take over managing finances for their elderly parents. Others help their parents create a budget. How much you get involved depends on your parent's ability and their willingness to receive financial advice.
Changes in eating habits can be another important elderly care indicator. If you notice a shift in your parent's diet or they are losing weight, it's time to investigate.
Signs like expired food in the pantry or a lack of fresh groceries can indicate trouble.
Your parent may be having difficulty preparing meals. Mobility issues may limit trips to the grocery store. They may also not understand what to include in a healthy diet.
Is your parent losing interest in activities they once enjoyed? Maybe they seem increasingly irritable. Social withdrawal and mood changes can reflect mental health concerns.
Isolation and mood fluctuations might indicate conditions like depression or anxiety. Help your parent share your concerns with their healthcare provider.
Moving into a community like The Watermark at Westwood Village means ample opportunities to meet new friends and receive emotional support.
Proper medication management is critical for maintaining overall health and well-being. When medications are not managed correctly, it can lead to serious health consequences. The effects of medication mismanagement include:
Be vigilant for signs that your parent might be struggling with their medication routine. Look for missed doses, where pills are not taken as prescribed, or confusion about medication instructions.
These issues are key indicators that your parent may need assistance with managing their medications.
Physical health issues are important clues that may signal a need for extra help. Pay attention to unexplained bruises, frequent falls, or noticeable changes in mobility.
Watch for signs that your parent is having trouble walking or maintaining balance. These age-related health issues often indicate struggles with physical strength or coordination. Seek help from a medical professional to rule out underlying conditions.
Our community features thoughtful design elements, like well-lit pathways, to help prevent accidents and promote a comfortable, secure living space for your loved one.
Cognitive decline is a significant concern for many aging individuals. Decline doesn't always mean something serious like Alzheimer's or dementia. What does cognitive decline look like?
Cognitive issues can impact daily functioning and safety. The Watermark at Westwood Village offers specialized care and cognitive support to help manage these challenges and improve your parent's quality of life.
As people age, they often rely on family or friends for help with daily tasks. There's absolutely nothing wrong with seeking help but watch for a change in how much help your parent needs.
If your parent is asking for help more frequently, it might be a sign they need more structured elder care assistance.
While you may be able to help with some things, your parent may feel more comfortable in a community designed to support increased dependence. An independent living community may be a good place to start.
A decline in personal safety awareness can be another sign that your parent needs extra help. If they begin forgetting to turn off the stove, leaving doors unlocked, or displaying other safety lapses, it's time to offer additional support.
Ensuring that their living environment is safe and making necessary adjustments can help prevent accidents.
Consider a community like the one you'll find at The Watermark at Westwood Village. We provide safety assessments and modifications to protect your loved one from hazards.
Recognizing the 10 signs your elderly parent needs help is crucial for their safety and well-being. From hygiene issues to cognitive decline, these indicators can guide you in helping elderly parents.
The Watermark at Westwood Village offers an array of amenities and services tailored to seniors who need support with daily living. We're the preferred independent living community in the heart of Los Angeles' Westside,
Discover how our community can support your loved one. Schedule a tour today and experience our exceptional care firsthand.