Caregiver Blog

During the holiday season we often find ourselves spending more time with our loved ones, reconnecting with those we may not see as often throughout the year. For many of us, this time of year involves visiting aging parents or family members. These visits can be a bittersweet reminder of how much time has passed and how much things may have changed since the last time you saw them. While it’s comforting to be together, it can also be a little scary to notice the signs of aging and decline in someone you love.

When you’re not living close by, it can be difficult to know how your parents are really doing. Are they taking care of themselves? Are they safe? What signs should you look for to determine if they’re starting to decline, and what can you do to help when you have to go back home?

Here are a few key signs to watch for and tips on how to help your aging loved ones stay safe and healthy—even when you can’t be there every day.

1. Medication Management

One of the first things you should check when visiting an aging parent is how they’re managing their medications. Many older adults struggle with keeping track of their prescriptions, and nearly half of seniors don’t take their medications as prescribed. This can lead to serious health problems or further decline.

• What to look for: Are their pill containers organized? Are there outdated prescriptions? Do they seem confused about which medications to take or when? If you find that they aren’t adhering to their medication schedule, consider setting up a more structured system, like a pill organizer, or using a medication reminder system to help.

2. Changes in Mobility

Mobility issues can signal a range of health problems in older adults. Pay close attention to how they move around. Are they shuffling their feet? Do they seem to be moving more slowly or unsteadily than usual? Have they stopped using a cane, walker, or other mobility aids?

• What to look for: A noticeable change in gait or reluctance to use mobility aids can increase the risk of falls, which can lead to serious injuries. If you notice these changes, make sure their home is safe—remove tripping hazards, install grab bars in bathrooms, and encourage them to use their mobility aids.

3. Dehydration and Nutrition

Chronic dehydration is a common problem among older adults, and it can lead to a range of health issues, from confusion to kidney problems. Similarly, not eating enough or skipping meals can lead to weakness, fatigue, and other complications.

• What to look for: Are they drinking enough water? Are they eating regular meals? If your loved one isn’t consuming enough fluids or nutrients, consider reminding them to drink water and make sure they have easy-to-prepare, nutritious meals on hand. Some people may also benefit from nutritional supplements or meal delivery services.

4. Bathroom Habits

Changes in bathroom habits can signal a variety of health issues, including dehydration, urinary tract infections (UTIs), or constipation. Pay attention to whether they’re using the bathroom more frequently than usual or having difficulty.

• What to look for: If they seem to be having trouble with incontinence or show signs of discomfort, it’s worth discussing with a healthcare provider. Untreated UTIs, for example, can cause confusion and other symptoms in older adults.

5. Grooming and Hygiene

A lack of personal hygiene can be a sign that your loved one is struggling to take care of themselves. This can be a sign of physical or cognitive decline or simply a reflection of a lack of motivation.

• What to look for: Are they dressing appropriately? Have they showered recently? Are they brushing their teeth regularly? If you notice signs of neglect, it may be time to help them set up a routine or hire a caregiver to assist with bathing and grooming.

6. Wandering or Disorientation

One of the most concerning signs of cognitive decline, especially for those with Alzheimer’s or other forms of dementia, is wandering. This can happen when a loved one becomes disoriented and tries to leave the house or go to a place they feel they need to be.

• What to look for: If they seem confused or restless, or if they’re getting up frequently and trying to leave the house, it’s important to intervene before something dangerous happens. Having a system that can alert you when they leave the house or a GPS tracker will help keep your loved one safe.

What to Do When You Can’t Be There

If, after your visit, you notice signs of decline and realize that your loved one may need more help, you may find yourself wondering how to manage the situation once you return home. Unfortunately, it’s not always possible to be there in person on a daily basis, but there are steps you can take to stay informed and provide care from a distance.

Care Bloom can help bridge the gap when you can’t be there physically. With a smartwatch and sensors placed in the home, Care Bloom can monitor your loved one's health and wellness, alerting you to changes that may need your attention. Whether it's changes in medication, mobility, hydration, or other health markers, Care Bloom offers a discreet and reliable way to keep tabs on your loved one’s well-being.

With Care Bloom, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that you’re keeping an eye on your aging parent, even when you’re miles away. It allows you to respond quickly to potential issues before they become bigger problems, and it provides a connection to caregivers or healthcare providers when necessary.

In Conclusion

Holidays with aging parents are a special time, but they can also highlight some difficult truths about their health and well-being. By watching for changes in medication, mobility, hydration, bathroom habits, grooming, and behavior, you can gain a clearer picture of how they are doing and what support they may need. And, with the help of services like Care Bloom, you don’t have to feel helpless when you go back home—there are ways to stay connected and provide care from a distance.

Your loved ones deserve to age with dignity, comfort, and safety. By being vigilant and taking proactive steps, you can help ensure they are well taken care of—even when you’re not there in person.