Holiday Check-in: 6 Telltale Signs of Decline in Aging Parents

For many families, the holiday season means gathering for the first time in months, often revealing subtle – or not-so-subtle – changes in aging parents. While they may insist everything is fine, it’s important to keep an eye out for signs of physical, cognitive, and emotional decline. Here are 6 key indicators that your older parent may need more help than they are letting on, and that it might be time to consider a move to a safer, more supportive environment like a senior living community.  

 

1. Changes in Personal Hygiene
   If you notice that your parent isn’t keeping up with grooming habits – showering less, wearing not-so-fresh clothes, or not shaving – this could be an early sign of declining physical or cognitive ability. Poor personal hygiene often indicates a lack of energy or difficulty managing daily tasks.

  

2. Difficulty with Mobility
   Is your parent struggling with walking, getting up from chairs, or climbing stairs? Falls or a noticeable decline in mobility may suggest they’re having trouble with balance, strength, or coordination, increasing the risk of serious injury.

  

3. Neglected Household Maintenance
   When visiting, take a closer look at their living environment. Are dishes piling up? Is the trash overflowing? Are bills left unopened? A cluttered or disorganized home could mean your parent is having difficulty managing daily household tasks or is overwhelmed by maintaining their living space.

  

4. Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition
   Check the kitchen and pantry for fresh, nutritious foods. A parent who is losing weight unexpectedly or subsisting on microwave meals or snacks may be struggling to cook, shop for groceries, or may have lost their appetite due to an underlying health issue.

  

5. Memory Lapses or Confusion
   Everyone forgets things from time to time, but if your parent is having significant memory problems, such as forgetting appointments, missing medications, or repeating the same conversations, this could signal the early stages of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Confusion, especially about routine tasks, is a red flag that more assistance is needed.

  

6. Changes in Mood or Behavior
   Has your usually upbeat parent become withdrawn or moody? Signs of depression or anxiety, such as a lack of interest in hobbies, irritability, or isolation, can be indicators of loneliness or a deeper mental health issue. These emotional changes might be a cry for more social interaction or support.

   

What to Do Next 

If several of these signs resonate with your experience, don’t wait for a crisis to bring up the topic with your parent and their doctor. A move to senior living community can help ensure your loved one’s safety, well-being, and quality of life for many holidays to come – schedule a tour today.