When to Step in: Signs That Aging Parents Need Help

As our parents get older, their physical and mental abilities can deteriorate, making it more difficult for them to complete everyday tasks independently. They may start to require assistance with activities such as meal preparation, housekeeping, personal hygiene, and transportation. Therefore, it is crucial to observe any signs that your aging parent may need help to ensure that they receive the necessary support and care to maintain their health and well-being.

Some warning signs that your aging parent may need assistance include forgetfulness, confusion, unsteadiness or falls, difficulty with mobility, decreased appetite or weight loss, neglect of personal hygiene or living space, changes in mood or behavior, and forgetfulness with medication schedules.

This article will explore in detail some of the most common signs that indicate your parent might need assistance.

Physical Limitations

As individuals age, physical limitations can become an increasingly common occurrence. Various factors, including chronic illness, injuries, or natural aging, can cause these limitations. Consequently, aging parents may experience difficulty with everyday activities such as walking, standing from a chair, or climbing stairs. This can be further compounded by pain or discomfort when performing these activities. Physical limitations can manifest in other ways, such as difficulty grasping objects, carrying groceries, or opening jars. Below are some of the most common signs of physical limitations found in older adults:

Mobility difficulties

Vision and hearing impairment

Fatigue and weakness

Chronic Conditions

Increased Risk of Falls

Reduced Social Engagement

If you notice any of these signs in your aging parent, initiating a conversation about getting them the necessary help is crucial. Physical therapy or assistance with daily tasks can be instrumental in helping them maintain their independence and quality of life. By addressing physical limitations early on, you can help your aging parent continue to live a fulfilling life.

Changes in Behavior

If you notice that your aging parent has become more irritable or anxious or withdrawn from social activities and become more isolated, it may be time to initiate a conversation about their mental health. These changes in behaviour can often be linked to underlying mental health issues such as anxiety or depression. Your parent may also lose interest in hobbies or activities they once enjoyed, further contributing to feelings of isolation and loneliness.

By talking to your parent about their mental health, you can help them get the necessary support to manage their symptoms. This may include seeing a therapist or psychiatrist, exploring medication options or finding alternative ways to participate in activities they enjoy. By addressing changes in behaviour early on, you can help your aging parent maintain their physical and emotional well-being.

Difficulty with Household Chores

Aging parents may experience difficulty with cooking, cleaning, or laundry tasks. They may also need help with home maintenance tasks like changing light bulbs or fixing things around the house. If you notice any of these signs in your aging parent, initiating a conversation about getting them the necessary help is crucial.

Difficulty with household chores can be a significant source of frustration and make it challenging for your parent to maintain independence. They may need personal care assistance with housekeeping or home maintenance tasks, which can be provided by family members, friends, or professional caregivers. By addressing these challenges early on, you can help your aging parent continue living in their home and maintaining their quality of life. With the right support and resources, your aging parent can continue enjoying their daily activities and living fulfilling lives.

Conclusion

Watching for signs that your aging parent might need help is essential. Physical limitations, changes in behaviour, and difficulty with household chores are all signs that your parent may need assistance. Talking to your parent about getting help can be difficult, but ensuring their health and well-being is essential. With the right support, your aging parent can maintain their independence and live a fulfilling life.

Osan Ability is an NDIS-registered (National Disability Insurance Scheme) Provider based in Sydney specialising in disability support, disability accommodation (SDA, short term, medium term), community participation, domestic assistance, allied health, and in-home aged care. If your loved ones need home support for the elderly in Bella Vista, enquire today!