Spot The Signs: Recognising When a Loved One Needs Extra Support

Why ‘Spot The Signs’ Matters

Many families struggle with the decision to seek care for an ageing loved one. The signs that extra support is needed are often subtle—missed meals, increased forgetfulness, or a decline in personal hygiene. These ‘little signs’ might seem minor on their own, but together, they can indicate more significant underlying concerns such as cognitive decline, mobility issues, or loneliness.

Our campaign aims to raise awareness through emotional storytelling, educational resources, and shareable content, giving families the knowledge and confidence to take proactive steps in ensuring their loved ones receive the right care at the right time.

Key Signs to Look Out For

If you’ve noticed any of the following changes in a loved one, it may be time to consider additional support:

✅ Changes in Personal Hygiene – Unwashed clothes, lack of grooming, or unusual body odour could indicate difficulty managing daily tasks. ✅ Forgetfulness & Confusion – Repeating themselves frequently, missing appointments, or struggling to remember familiar places and faces. ✅ Decline in Mobility – Difficulty walking, frequent falls, or reluctance to leave the house. ✅ Changes in Eating Habits – Unexplained weight loss, spoiled food in the fridge, or forgetting to eat meals. ✅ Mood & Behavioural Changes – Increased irritability, withdrawal from social activities, or sudden mood swings. ✅ Unopened Mail & Unpaid Bills – A pile-up of unpaid bills or missed financial commitments may suggest difficulty managing daily responsibilities.

Starting the Care Conversation

Talking to a loved one about care can be difficult, but it’s an essential step in ensuring their well-being. Our ‘Spot The Signs’ campaign encourages open, compassionate discussions with family members. Here are some tips for approaching the conversation:

💬 Choose the Right Time & Place – Find a quiet, comfortable setting where you can talk without distractions. 💜 Express Concern, Not Criticism – Use gentle language, such as “I’ve noticed you’ve been struggling with…” rather than “You can’t manage anymore.” 👂 Listen & Offer Support – Allow your loved one to share their feelings and reassure them that care is about independence, not loss of control.

Join the Movement

Over the coming weeks, we’ll be sharing real-life stories, expert advice, and helpful resources across our social media channels to help families navigate this journey with confidence. If you’d like to learn more about spotting the signs and how Home Instead Milton Keynes can support your loved one, follow our campaign and share your own experiences using #SpotTheSigns.

📢 Let’s work together to ensure no one faces these challenges alone.

Stay tuned for updates, and if you’re concerned about a loved one, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team for guidance. 💜

#SpotTheSigns #HomeInsteadMiltonKeynes #CareWithConfidence #ElderlyWellness #CompassionateCare