At the start of the year, home care agencies such as ourselves, experience a notable surge in inquiries from families seeking care for their aging loved ones.
Frequently, inquiries for care support arise from families observing changes in an elderly relative's health, cognitive abilities, or overall demeanour. The festive season, bringing families together for extended periods, provides a unique opportunity to notice signs that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Amid the holiday gatherings, subtle shifts in a loved one's well-being may become apparent. Perhaps Mum exhibits increased forgetfulness and repetitive storytelling, or Dad, experiencing weight loss and loss of appetite, signals potential health concerns. A solitary parent might express feelings of loneliness, highlighting the need for social connection.
While some signs are overt, what are the more nuanced changes that family members should be attentive to?
Untidy or unclean living space: A decline in housekeeping could stem from physical limitations or a diminished enthusiasm for such tasks.
Bruising indicating falls: Aging individuals may be reluctant to disclose falls, making bruises a potential indicator of recurrent incidents.
Expired food in the fridge: Cognitive decline or early stages of dementia may lead to the neglect of food expiration dates, posing health risks.
Unfamiliarity with names in Christmas cards: Memory loss can manifest as difficulty recognising individuals, even in familiar social contexts.
Social withdrawal: A diminishing desire to engage in social activities may signal a loss of confidence or a preference for staying home.
For those who identify these signs in a loved one, it's crucial to recognise that assistance is available. Elderly Home care can begin with just one call to Solcare.