A Season for Caring: How to Spot When Elderly Loved Ones Need Extra Support
Home Instead Bristol North offers personalised home care this Christmas. Spot signs elderly loved ones need support and ensure they stay safe and happy at home.
‘Tis the season to be jolly, overindulge and take a break from the everyday while spending time with your loved ones and making cherished memories. After all, Christmas is a time for family but also a time to spend quality time with elderly relatives, keeping an eye out for changes to their health and well-being and offering extra support if needed.
If you are visiting older relatives or more vulnerable family members this Christmas, look out for these signs that could indicate they are not coping as well as they were.
1. An empty fridge or out-of-date food
Take a peek inside the fridge, cupboards, or freezer. If groceries are running low, food is expired, or the cupboards look poorly stocked, it might be more than just a skipped shopping trip. Memory issues, mobility challenges, or even a lack of motivation can make regular food shopping or meal prep harder than it used to be. These signs could mean your loved one isn’t getting the nutrition they need to stay healthy.
2. Missed appointments or a disorganised schedule
Have a glance at their calendar or diary. If appointments are being missed or their schedule seems chaotic, this could be a sign they’re feeling overwhelmed or struggling with their memory. These little lapses can add up, often affecting mood, confidence, and general well-being.
3. Changes in personal care habits
Notice how they’re looking. If your relatives usual grooming habits, personal hygiene, or clothing choices have taken a backseat, it could mean they’re finding daily tasks harder to manage and need some help with personal care. Whether it’s due to mobility issues, low energy, or forgetfulness, these changes are worth keeping an eye on.
4. Difficulty managing household tasks
Take note of how the home feels. Is it as tidy and organised as it used to be? Neglected cleaning, unwashed laundry, or general clutter could indicate difficulties in keeping up with household chores. It might also be a sign that your loved one could use some help with their usual routines. If there are signs of trips and fall injuries, make sure the house is clear of hazards.
5. Medication management issues
Check their medication routine. If pillboxes show missed doses, medications are unopened, or they seem confused about schedules, it’s a worrying sign they are not coping. Managing prescriptions can feel overwhelming, especially if there are multiple medications involved, and this could impact their health.
6. Changes in mood or behaviour
Notice how they’re acting. Are they more withdrawn, irritable, or anxious? Emotional changes can sometimes stem from physical limitations, memory issues, or social isolation. These shifts might be their way of signalling they’re finding daily life a bit too much to handle.
What to do next
If any of these signs feel familiar or you have concerns over the festive period, it might be time to have an open, supportive chat about care. Starting this conversation early can help avoid crises and ensure your loved one has the right support to feel safe and comfortable at home. Whether it’s a little help with housekeeping, regular meal preparation, or something more involved, there are options to make life easier and brighter for them.
How we can help
At Home Instead Bristol North, we specialise in personalised care that fits around the unique needs of your loved one. From assistance with daily tasks to friendly companionship or medication management, our compassionate team is here to offer the support they deserve. With a focus on independence and dignity, we work closely with families to create care plans that seamlessly integrate into daily life.
Contact us
If you’ve noticed changes and think your loved one could benefit from extra support, we’re here to assist and advise you on taking the next step. If you already have caring responsibilities, you may like to consider some respite support. Reach out to Home Instead Bristol North at 0117 435 0063 or visit our website to learn more. Together, we can ensure your loved ones continue living safely, comfortably, and happily in their own home.