Spot the Signs: When Mum Needs Support in Oxford
It’s not always easy to recognise when an older loved one needs help—but spotting the signs early can make a big difference.
Seeing the Changes in Mum: One Family’s Story
As our loved ones age, small changes can build up over time—sometimes so gradually that we don’t immediately realise they need support. Many families in Oxfordshire are facing similar situations, wondering whether it’s time to seek care. At Home Instead Oxford, we often speak with families who have started to notice shifts in memory, personal hygiene, or nutrition in their older relatives. For the family of Mrs C, it was a mix of these signs that prompted them to call us and ask: “Is it time to get help for Mum?”
“Mum Just Wasn’t Herself Anymore”
Mrs C’s daughter got in touch after a visit over Christmas. She noticed that her usually well-kept mum hadn’t changed her clothes in days, had out-of-date food in the fridge, and seemed confused about whether she’d taken her medication. “Mum just didn’t seem herself,” her daughter told us. “She’s always been so sharp and independent—it was hard to admit something had changed.”
These are some of the most common signs families mention when contacting us:
- Memory loss (70%)
- Personal hygiene concerns (48%)
- Difficulty managing medication (44%)
- Unplanned weight loss or poor nutrition (31%)
- Home safety worries, like falls or confusion using appliances (31%)
Other frequent signs include isolation, lack of interest in hobbies, and unexplained bruising.
Getting to Know What Matters Most
At Home Instead Oxford, we don’t believe in one-size-fits-all care. We started by carrying out an initial assessment with Mrs C and her family to understand her routine, lifestyle, and what’s most important to her. From there, we created a personally tailored support plan designed around her specific needs and goals—from having regular, nutritious meals to feeling confident enough to rejoin her local community cafe.
We also understand how important it is for care to feel personal. That’s why we carefully match our Care Professionals to clients based not only on their skills but also on shared personalities and mutual interests—something that’s made a real difference in helping Mrs C feel at ease.
Expert Support That Makes a Difference
Our Care Professionals are trained to the highest standards, receiving industry-leading training so they’re confident, compassionate, and capable in every situation. For Mrs C, that has meant consistent, respectful support with her medication, hygiene, and meals. Over time, she’s regained her confidence, re-established a comfortable daily routine, and even began taking part in community activities again.
Learn more about our personal care services here.
Positive Outcomes for the Whole Family
When a loved one receives the right care, the benefits extend far beyond the individual. Families often experience a huge sense of relief knowing their parent or relative is safe, well-supported, and enjoying a good quality of life. It allows family members to step out of the role of full-time carers and back into their roles as sons, daughters, or spouses. The time spent together becomes more meaningful—focused on connection, shared memories, and enjoyment rather than worry or practical concerns. With consistent, high-quality care in place, everyone involved gains peace of mind and a greater sense of balance.
Knowing the Signs Can Make All the Difference
Every family’s journey is different, but recognising when something isn’t quite right can be the first step to getting the right support. Families like Mrs C’s are not alone—and neither are you.
Learn how to recognise the signs that an older loved one might need support, and how personalised care from Home Instead Oxford can make a meaningful difference for the whole family.
Visit our website or give us a call today.