When you visit the seniors in your life this holiday season, note how well they’re doing on their own. As they age, declining physical and mental health may interfere with their daily routines, affecting their safety and mood. If they’re doing poorly, you can help them get the senior care they require. Whether they need companionship, at-home supervision, or assisted living, here’s what to look for to make that call.

How to Tell If a Loved One Needs Senior Care

1. Appearance

If your loved one is struggling to care for themselves, you may notice a change in their appearance and personal hygiene. They may look unkempt, have scratches and bruises, or wear stained clothing. A change in their health status may also lead to a change in weight—either a gain or loss.

2. Mental Function

When you converse, are they able to follow the conversation? Difficulty in keeping up or expressions of frustration or indifference represent a decline in cognitive function. Also, take note if they seem to forget or misremember names and events.

3. Movement

If their sense of balance is off or their ability to move is concerning, senior care may be necessary to prevent stumbles and falls. Pay attention to how they walk, sit, and stand. If they can’t manage to cook, brush their teeth, or collect the mail, senior care will help with mobility issues to maintain their quality of life and independence.

4. Mood

Aging can cause depression and mood swings due to changes in the brain. Declining health, mobility, and memory can lead to frustration, irritability, and sadness. Social isolation also affects mood. If your aging loved one is lonely and their moods seem unpredictable, they may need senior care and companionship.

If you notice any of these signs this holiday season, contact Home Helpers of Jacksonville. Serving Calhoun County, AL, including Oxford, they offer a range of in-home senior care services. Help for seniors with Alzheimer’s is available. Their approaches are tailored to the needs of each client. For a consultation, call (256) 776-7769, or visit their website to see a list of the services they offer.