Signs your loved one needs extra help at home (part 1)

Recognising when a beloved family member needs additional support at home can be one of the most challenging aspects of caring for ageing relatives. Many seniors are independent and may resist help, while family members often struggle to distinguish between normal ageing and signs that indicate a need for intervention. Understanding the key warning signs can help you provide timely support while preserving your loved one’s dignity and autonomy.

Changes in personal care and hygiene 

One of the earliest indicators that someone may need extra help is a noticeable decline in personal care. This might manifest as wearing the same clothes for several days, poor dental hygiene, or an overall unkempt appearance that’s uncharacteristic for your loved one. Body odour, dirty fingernails, or hair that appears unwashed for extended periods can all signal that daily self-care tasks are becoming challenging. 

Keep an eye out for any signs that your loved one might be struggling with buttons, zippers, or other clothing fasteners. They may start opting for clothes that are easier to handle, or you might observe that those who used to dress well are now wearing clothes that don’t quite fit or aren’t suitable for the weather or occasion. 

Household maintenance and safety concerns 

• Look for signs of neglect such as unopened mail piling up, unpaid bills, or important documents scattered or lost. A typically organised person who begins leaving important paperwork in disarray may be struggling with cognitive changes or simply feeling overwhelmed by administrative tasks. 
• Kitchen safety becomes particularly important to monitor. Spoiled food in the refrigerator, expired items in the pantry, or evidence of cooking accidents like burn marks on pots or countertops can indicate difficulty with meal preparation. You might notice that your loved one has lost weight, is eating only packaged or processed foods, or has stopped cooking meals they previously enjoyed preparing. 
• General housekeeping changes can also signal a need for help. A normally tidy person whose home becomes cluttered, dusty, or unsanitary may be experiencing physical limitations or cognitive changes that make cleaning difficult. Laundry piling up, dishes left unwashed, or neglected pet care are additional warning signs to consider. 

Health and medication management 

Medication management often becomes challenging as people age, and problems in this area can have serious consequences. Look for signs such as medications that appear to have been missed or double-dosed, or confusion about what medications to take when. Some people may hoard medications, taking expired prescriptions, or forget to refill prescriptions entirely. 

Frequent falls, even minor ones, should always be taken seriously. While occasional stumbles happen to everyone, an increase in falls or near-falls may indicate problems with balance, vision, medication side effects, or environmental hazards. Pay attention if your loved one mentions feeling dizzy, lightheaded, or unsteady, as these symptoms can precede more serious incidents. 

Changes in eating habits beyond those mentioned in kitchen safety can indicate various problems. Significant weight loss or gain, complaints about food tasting different, or apparent difficulty chewing or swallowing all warrant attention. Sometimes dental problems, medication side effects, or swallowing difficulties can make eating challenging. 

Recognising when a loved one requires additional assistance at home is crucial for providing the appropriate support. 

Holdsworth offers a wide range of home care services designed to support you and your loved ones. Whether you need help around the house, transport to appointments or support staying connected with your local community, we’re here to make things easier.