The holiday season brings family and friends together. It is a time for traveling, reconnecting, and enjoying cherished traditions with loved ones. Often, the holidays provide a unique chance to check on your aging parents and see how they are really doing.

Whether you live nearby or far away, visits may not happen as often as you would like. Sometimes, you rely on phone calls or updates from others to stay informed. This is why it is important to focus on senior health during the holidays. It is an opportunity to spend time with your loved one in person and monitor their well-being. You can look for the signs your aging loved one needs help. We will share the signs to look for in senior loved ones to ensure they are safe, healthy, and thriving.

Signs to Look for in Senior Loved Ones Over the Holidays

We understand how much you care. To help you, we have outlined four common signs to look for in senior loved ones. These signs might suggest they need more support than they are getting now.

1. Weight Loss

There can be many reasons why a loved one may be losing weight. Sometimes, simple causes like stress or the aging process can lower their energy levels, making meal preparation difficult. Medications, unmanaged diabetes, depression, or other chronic conditions can also reduce their appetite. No matter the cause, encourage a visit to their physician to address the changes. Offering to accompany them can provide comfort and support.

2. Changes in Mobility and Balance

Changes in mobility may be noticeable through a slower walk, a change in their gait, or visible discomfort during movement. Some signs can be more subtle, like a hesitancy to move around as freely as before. This reluctance may be due to the pain of movement or a fear of falling from past experiences. Mobility concerns can signal joint, muscle, or neurological issues. Addressing these changes with a physician can help keep your loved one moving safely. When these issues go unaddressed, a fear of falling can increase, leading to further decline in mobility.

3. Fluctuations in Mood and Behavior

Changes in a loved one’s mood and behavior are important to pay attention to. Take the time to have a gentle conversation and ask how they feel. Are they still enjoying activities they have always loved, like meeting friends for breakfast or attending weekly church services? Notice any signs of irritability, sadness, impulsivity, or reckless behavior. These changes can stem from conditions such as anxiety, depression, or dementia. If you notice these shifts, a professional evaluation is essential to understand what is happening and how to help.

4. Changes in the Home

Your loved one’s surroundings can provide clues about their overall well-being. A messy home or a pile of unopened mail might be signs that something is not right. Look closer for subtle indicators, like a hamper overflowing with laundry or a scorched pot on the stove. This could mean that they lack the energy for daily tasks or are becoming forgetful. These signs may suggest your loved one needs help with managing their daily routines.

What to Do if You See Any of These Signs

Your loved one’s safety and happiness are what matter most. If you notice any of these signs, it is important to address senior safety concerns at home right away. Sit down with your loved one for a heartfelt conversation and involve other family members if needed. Express your concerns kindly and share specific examples of what you have observed. If you feel it is necessary, schedule an appointment with their physician and attend with them for support. Understanding their situation is key to finding the right care and solutions.

At Jacaranda Trace in Venice, Florida, members enjoy maintenance-free living, companionship, chef-prepared meals, and a full social calendar. Onsite healthcare and housekeeping services add peace of mind. Here, your loved one can stay independent, safe, and engaged in a community that cares.

To learn more about Jacaranda Trace or to schedule a visit, please contact us or call 941-408-2050.