How to Move Forward After the Holidays When Aging Loved Ones Show Signs of Needing Support

The holidays are a cherished time to reconnect with loved ones, but for many families, they can also bring to light the changes that come with aging.

Noticing that an aging parent or relative is struggling with daily tasks, memory, or mobility can be difficult, but it’s also an opportunity to provide the care and support they need to thrive.

Here’s how you can proceed if this holiday season brought concerns about a loved one’s well-being.

 

Signs Your Aging Loved One May Need Extra Support At Home

1. Changes in Personal Hygiene
   If you noticed they’re wearing the same clothes repeatedly or skipping showers, it may be due to physical limitations or cognitive challenges.
2. A Decline in Home Upkeep
   An untidy home or unopened mail piling up can indicate they’re struggling to manage their household or finances.
3. Physical Challenges or Mobility Issues
   Difficulty moving around the house, frequent falls, or complaints of pain may mean they need assistance to maintain their independence safely.
4. Cognitive or Memory Concerns
   Repeated forgetfulness, confusion about familiar tasks, or misplaced items can be early signs of cognitive decline.
5. Social Withdrawal or Changes in Mood
   A lack of interest in activities they used to love or withdrawal from family and friends could indicate depression or health-related changes.

If you’ve witnessed other changes or unusual behavior in your aging parent or loved one during the holiday season, don’t hesitate to reach out to our Team for guidance. For more common signs, check out our When Home Care Can Help page for more information.

Your Next Steps

1. Have a Compassionate Conversation
   Approach your loved one with empathy and curiosity. Share what you’ve noticed without judgment and ask how they’ve been feeling.
2. Reach Out for Support
   If their needs are more than you can manage alone, consider professional support options. Home care services, like those offered by Caregiver Support, can provide assistance tailored to their needs while allowing them to age in place comfortably.
3. Learn About Home Care Options
   Home care is more than just assistance—it’s about preserving independence, enhancing safety, and giving families peace of mind. Our experienced team can help with home care services like meal preparation, medication reminders, transportation, and companionship.

How Home Care Can Help

At Assistance Home Care, we specialize in helping families navigate finding the best senior care options & resources with confidence. Our compassionate Care Professionals provide the right level of support to keep your loved one safe and comfortable in their home, while you regain peace of mind.

If this holiday season revealed it’s time to start exploring in-home care options, we’re here to help. We’ve helped over 5,000 families throughout St. Louis & Chicago with their loved one’s care at home. Reach out to our Team to learn more about how we can tailor a solution for your family’s needs.