As people age, those activities they used to take for granted get harder to do. The body does not respond the way it used to. Even the most independent and mentally sharp elderly person still may find day to day activities hard to manage. For loved ones, it is critical to know the signs that a loved one may need help to ensure that person’s quality of life and health remains as good as possible.
#1 – The home isn’t kept up. A once well-organized loved one may find it hard to do simple things, like dusting or vacuuming. Noticeable signs of concern include areas of neglect that could lead to health concerns, such as items on the steps or dishes in the sink that haven’t been washed in some time. This indicates potential limited physical ability.
#2 – Feelings of paranoia often indicate a change in mental health, but can also be a sign that the loved one is struggling with hearing changes. This should be properly addressed.
#3 – He or she doesn’t wish to leave. Sometimes, the once social individual finds it hard to do those activities as he or she gets older. Often, a withdrawal from social situations also signals potential hearing concerns. It becomes harder and harder to understand what loved ones are saying and it is easier to simply stay home.
#4 – Weight loss that’s not normal may be a concern. A loss of weight may indicate a loved one is struggling to prepare meals or may need transportation to and from the grocery store.
#5 – Not eating is an area of worry. Some people stop eating because preparing meals is too hard, but others do so because they do not feel well. This may be an indication of a disease, including potentially cancer or intestinal concerns.
#6 – Bruising on the body indicates the likelihood a loved one has fallen. Noticeable bruising is often an indication of a larger problem, sometimes with more significant injury that is hidden. Often times, people do not want to talk about this type of incident because they feel as though they cannot take care of themselves.
#7 – Long absences where the individual is out of communication could indicate falls or other instances. The use of a medical alert tool may be the necessary to ensure such instances do not happen.
#8 – Impaired eyesight is also concerning. Many elderly people lose the quality of eyesight so much so that driving becomes impossible. That does not mean all people stop driving though. Indications here may include not being able to read documents or having to sit closer to the television.
#9 – Forgetfulness is often a problem elderly individuals have. In some cases, especially when the condition progresses, this can be an early sign of dementia.
Loved ones exhibiting changes like these often need help at home. Providing help for maintaining the home is often necessary, but providing a medical alert system can be critical to ensuring the individual’s health is maintained.