Watching our parents age is a bittersweet journey, filled with moments of pride and concern. As they grow older, subtle shifts in their daily routines can signal the need for a bit of extra support. While ageing is a natural part of life, recognising these signs early on helps preserve their independence and quality of life.

Approximately 5.7 million individuals in the UK are expected to take care of their elderly parents soon, and 69% of them are struggling to juggle this responsibility with other commitments such as work and family.

This guide will help you identify common signs that may show your elderly parents need extra support.

Essential Indicators to Add Extra Support for Elderly Parents

Here are six essential indicators to add extra support for elderly parents that you must know:

• Struggles with Mobility or Balance

As people age, their balance and mobility naturally diminish, leading to a higher chance of falls and related injuries. If your parents are having difficulty with basic movements like standing up, using stairs, or staying steady, it indicates that they require additional assistance.

What You Can Do?

Consider installing handrails, grab bars, and non-slip mats to make their home safer. If needed, mobility aids like canes or walkers can also make daily life easier. A personal alarm for the elderly offers an extra layer of reassurance, providing immediate assistance in case of falls or other emergencies. 

• Frequent Memory Lapses or Confusion

Memory changes are a natural part of ageing, but if forgetfulness or confusion begins to disrupt daily routines, it could be a sign of something more. For example, memory loss, missed appointments, or misplacing important belongings may point to the early stages of dementia or other cognitive concerns. According to Bupa, three in 200 elderly people in the age range of 65-69 have dementia.

What You Can Do?

Establish notifications using phone alerts or medication dispensers with alarms to help them with their daily schedule. In addition, routine cognitive assessments are beneficial to track and delay cognitive decline.

It is essential to differentiate between normal forgetfulness and potential signs of a more serious issue to address concerns about memory lapses. Caregivers should educate themselves about common memory issues and their causes to recognise early signs of memory decline in seniors. In-home assistance or adult daycare programs can offer help and oversight.

• Neglecting Household Responsibilities

If you notice that your parents’ home has become more cluttered than usual or that bills are going unpaid, it could mean they’re finding it harder to manage household tasks. Struggling to keep a tidy home could result from tiredness, limited mobility, or decreased cognitive function.

What You Can Do?

Plan consistent family meetings to ensure tasks are completed, or consider employing a cleaning company. Assistance with living or chores can also bring relief, providing a safe and organised atmosphere for your loved ones without causing too much stress.

• Declining Personal Hygiene or Changes in Appearance

Changing personal grooming habits may suggest that daily self-care is becoming difficult. Dirty clothes, poor hygiene, or unpleasant smells could indicate that help with Activities of Daily Living (ADL) may be necessary.

Do you know that 18.1% of elderly individuals in their 60s and 20.9% in their 70s have difficulties with at least one ADL?

What You Can Do?

Start by having light discussions about their challenges regarding caring for themselves. Hiring a caregiver to assist with bathing or dressing at home can significantly impact the process. These modifications can enhance their overall health and self-perception when treated with respect.

• Loss of Appetite or Noticeable Weight Loss

Notable shifts in diet or unexpected drops in weight could indicate the following:

• Hidden health problems
• Depression, or
• Difficulties with cooking

Research indicates that older adults have a higher chance of being overweight or obese, which can lead to various health problems, making it necessary to watch for any weight loss or dietary alterations closely.

A decreased appetite and noticeable weight reduction indicate a potential need for nutritional assistance.

What You Can Do?

Set up food delivery services or investigate meal plans tailored for seniors to make sure they get proper nutrition. Social programs that promote collaborative dining can also support consistent meal consumption. If you suspect health issues like difficulty chewing or digestive problems, seek personalised advice from your healthcare provider.

• Increased Social Isolation or Withdrawal

Social relationships are vital for the emotional and mental health of elderly individuals. Social isolation and loneliness affect several people, with around 25% of older people facing social isolation. If your parents are no longer participating in social activities they used to enjoy or are spending most of their time alone, they might be feeling lonely, depressed, or facing physical limitations that prevent them from going out.

What You Can Do?

Promote frequent family visits, video calls, or companionship services to maintain their connections. To discover additional strategies and activities for fostering connections and addressing loneliness, learn more about ways to help seniors overcome loneliness. If going out becomes challenging, get transportation help or try online group activities that can be done at home.

Conclusion

Caring for elderly parents requires love, patience, and attentiveness. By identifying indicators that they may need additional assistance, you can improve their well-being, security, and satisfaction. Simple steps like using personal alarms, setting up assistance at home, or increasing regular check-ins can significantly impact the process.

Every action you take maintains the dignity and independence of your elderly parents. By showing understanding and providing proactive care, you can ensure they live safely and fully during this stage. Your help is an effective way to show appreciation and value for the time spent together.