The Holiday Visit

When visiting your elderly loved ones, you might notice that their mobility has decreased and they’re slouching more or napping through activities. Either way, you may be curious what are some other signs to look out for and what can be done? The holidays are a great opportunity to assess your loved ones

well-being and provide support.

The Physical Signs

• Weight loss
• Changes in appetite or eating habits
• Poor hygiene – unkempt appearance, unwashed clothes, or body odor
• Untreated medical conditions – unaddressed health issues, such as wounds or infections

The Behavioral Signs

• Increased agitation and/or anxiety – unusual irritability, restlessness, or aggression
• Confusion or disorientation – difficulty recognizing family members, understanding time or place
• Mood changes – withdrawal, depression, or sudden mood swings

The Environmental Signs

• Unclean living space – clutter, dirty dishes, or unpleasant odors
• Unsafe conditions – hazards, such as tripping risks or unsecured medications
• Unpaid bills or financial issues – overdue bills, unpaid debts, or financial exploitation

The Cognitive Signs

• Memory lapses – forgetting recent events, appointments, or important dates
• Difficulty with daily tasks – struggling with cooking, bathing, or managing medications
• Communication challenges – difficulty finding words, following conversations, or repeating oneself

In addition to these signs, there are some other physical signs to look out for that may indicate that your loved one needs additional support:

• Frequent hospitalizations – multiple ER visits or hospital stays
• Increased fatigue – decreased energy or motivation
• Changes in sleep patterns – sleeping more or less than usual
• Difficulty with daily tasks – struggling with cooking, bathing, or managing medications

What Can You Do?

There are several options that you can do to help provide and encourage support to your loved one if you notice any of the above signs. Approaching the conversation may seem heady but rest assured, you are coming from a good place and deep down, they know that. Choosing the right time and place to have the conversation that you have noticed concerning changes will provide comfort for your loved one and ensure that they are calm.

Express your concern and lean into it being encouraging and not criticizing.

Focus on your loved one and the concern for their well-being. Redirect as needed. Use active listening to encourage your loved one to share their thoughts and feelings on what is happening and what they are experiencing. It could be that what they are experiencing and their truth is the opposite of what you are seeing.

Focus on the benefits by emphasizing the support that they could receive, such as increased safety and socialization; especially in a senior living community. The important thing is to take it slow. Don’t push for any immediate decisions and allow them time to process and consider what you are saying.

Resources To Support YOU

1. The National Institute on Aging (NIA): Offers information on senior care options and support
2. Alzheimer’s Association: Offers resources and guidance for caregivers and individuals with dementia
3. Area Agency on Aging (AAA): Visit your local AAA that offers information and support for seniors and caregivers
4. As always, call and visit your local senior living communities for tours, lunches, and information!