Changes in an older parent often creep up slowly. You might notice something during a visit, a phone call or a holiday, and wonder whether it is time to get help. These are ten signs families commonly mention, and what you can do about them.
1. The house looks different
Piles of mail, a full fridge of expired food or a home that used to be tidy and no longer is. Housework is often the first thing to slip when energy or mobility drops.
2. Meals are being skipped
Weight loss, an empty fridge, or the same simple meal every day can mean cooking has become hard.
3. Medications are missed or doubled
Check the pill box or blister packs. Missed doses, or tablets taken twice, are a common reason older people end up in hospital.
4. Personal care has changed
Wearing the same clothes for days, or not showering as often, can point to a fear of slipping in the bathroom.
5. There has been a fall or a near miss
Unexplained bruises, or a story about “nearly falling”, are worth taking seriously. One fall often makes people afraid to move, which weakens them further.
6. Driving has become risky
New dents in the car, getting lost on familiar routes, or avoiding driving altogether.
7. Bills and appointments are slipping
Unpaid bills, missed GP appointments or confusion about dates.
8. They are seeing fewer people
Giving up clubs, church, friends or phone calls. Loneliness affects both mood and health.
9. Memory or mood has changed
Repeating stories, forgetting recent conversations, or seeming flat and withdrawn. A GP can check for causes, including dementia, depression or medication side effects.
10. You are worried most of the time
If you are ringing every day to check they are okay, that worry is a sign too.
What to do next
- Talk with your parent. Ask what they find hard, and what would make life easier. Help works best when they feel in control.
- See the GP. A check-up can rule out medical causes.
- Contact My Aged Care on 1800 200 422 to arrange an aged care assessment. Our guide on how to arrange in-home aged care explains the steps.
- Get support while you wait. Private in-home care can usually start within days, and you can switch to government-funded services once they are approved.
A little help can go a long way
Many older people only need a few hours a week of help with showering, cleaning or shopping to stay safely at home. See our in-home aged care services.
Book a free consultation at home or at our Murrumbeena office, or call (03) 8524 7699. There is no cost and no obligation.