Noticing changes in someone you care about often starts with a feeling - something just seems different. Maybe you've noticed small changes in their home, behaviour, or daily routine. These observations can bring up many different emotions: worry about their wellbeing, uncertainty about what to do next, and even guilt about considering care options.
These feelings are completely natural. Many people find themselves in similar situations, wondering if it's time to seek additional support for someone they love. This guide will help you identify important signs and understand your next steps.
1. Changes in Personal Care
One of the earliest signs that someone might need support often appears in their personal care routine. These changes can be particularly noticeable if your loved one has always taken pride in their appearance. Look for:
- Unwashed hair or wearing dirty clothes
- Skipped showers or baths
- Difficulty managing basic grooming
- Wearing inappropriate clothing for the weather
Understanding why:These changes might suggest that everyday tasks are becoming more challenging, but with the right help, maintaining dignity and wellbeing is absolutely possible.
3. Memory Loss & Forgetfulness
While some forgetfulness is natural as we age, noticeable changes in memory or thinking patterns might suggest additional support could be helpful. These changes often concern family members the most. Look for:
- Missing important appointments
- Getting confused about dates and times
- Difficulty following conversations
- Frequently misplacing important items
- Getting lost in familiar places
Understanding why: Memory changes can affect confidence and safety, but with the right support, people can continue living independently while feeling secure.
5. Safety Concerns
When daily activities start to pose safety risks, it's important to consider additional support to help maintain both independence and security at home. Look for:
- Kitchen safety issues (burned pots, forgotten appliances)
- Difficulty with stairs or steps
- Signs of falls or unexplained bruises
- Problems with driving or getting around
- Medication management issues
Understanding why: Safety concerns don't mean someone needs to lose their independence. Often, small adjustments and support can make a home safer while maintaining autonomy.
2. Household Changes
A changing home environment can tell an important story about how someone is coping. When someone who has always kept a tidy home starts struggling with housework, it might signal they're finding daily tasks more challenging. Look for:
- Unusual clutter in a previously tidy home
- Expired food in the fridge and cupboards
- Unpaid bills piling up
- Basic repairs being neglected
- Poor cleaning standards
Understanding why: Managing a home involves many complex tasks that can become overwhelming. Sometimes, a little support with housework can make a huge difference to someone's quality of life.
4. Social and Emotional Changes
Our social connections play a vital role in our wellbeing. When someone starts withdrawing from their usual social activities, it might indicate they need some extra support to stay connected. Look for:
- Becoming withdrawn from family and friends
- Stopping usual social activities
- Signs of loneliness or isolation
- Loss of interest in favourite hobbies
- Increased anxiety about going out
Understanding why:Sometimes, physical or emotional challenges can make socialising feel daunting. Gentle support can help maintain those important connections that bring joy to life.
6. Daily Living Challenges
Sometimes the everyday tasks that we take for granted can become more difficult to manage. This might be one of the clearer signs that some support could help. Look for:
- Difficulty with shopping or preparing meals
- Struggles with household paperwork
- Problems using the telephone or familiar devices
- Changes in eating habits
- Difficulty managing appointments
Understanding why:Daily tasks can become overwhelming, but with the right support, these challenges can be managed while maintaining dignity and independence.
