Signs Your Loved One May Need Help at Home

As we age, it’s natural for our needs and routines to change. For many of us, staying in the comfort of our own homes is a top priority and with the right support, it’s often possible. If you have aging loved ones in your life, you may wonder how to know when it is time to step in and offer more help.

Whether you’re checking in on a parent, a sibling, or a longtime friend, small changes in daily habits can be early indicators that more support is needed. These signs aren’t meant to create fear, they’re simply gentle reminders to pay attention, have open conversations, and make thoughtful decisions that prioritize safety and quality of life.

1. Changes in Personal Hygiene

If you notice someone you love has started to neglect bathing, wearing the same clothes for days, or not brushing teeth may be signs that personal care tasks are becoming more difficult. This could be due to mobility challenges, memory issues, or even fear of falling in the bathroom.

2. Household Clutter or Disrepair

If your loved one always kept a tidy home but now dishes are piling up, expired food is sitting in the fridge, or laundry has been left untouched, it might mean they’re overwhelmed or simply no longer physically able to keep up.

3. Unexplained Weight Loss or Poor Eating Habits

A sudden change in appetite or noticeable weight loss can signal issues such as trouble cooking, forgetting to eat, or even depression. Look for signs like unopened mail-order meals or full refrigerators with untouched food.

4. Forgetfulness or Missed Appointments

Occasional forgetfulness is normal, but consistent patterns, like missing appointments, forgetting medications, or repeated phone calls asking the same question, may point to cognitive decline or early memory concerns.

5. Changes in Mood or Behavior

You might notice a loved one becoming withdrawn, irritable, or more anxious than usual. Sometimes, these shifts come from isolation or frustration with tasks that used to be easy. They can also be a sign that additional resources are needed. Emotional health is just as important as physical health.

6. Mobility and Balance Issues

Keep an eye out for bruises, frequent falls, or a sudden reliance on walls or furniture to get around the house. Even if they haven’t mentioned it, these signs often point to challenges in moving safely around their space.

7. Neglected Medical Needs

Unfilled prescriptions, unopened pill organizers, or confusion about which medications to take and when can be dangerous. Medical care becomes more complex with age, and it’s okay to need help keeping track.‍

‍What Can You Do?

If you notice one or more of these signs, we recommend starting with a conversation. Approach it with compassion and curiosity and try to avoid anything that can be perceived as criticism. You might say something like, “I’ve noticed a few changes and just want to make sure you’re feeling okay. Is there anything I can help with?”

Often, solutions can be small: a housecleaner once a week, a meal delivery service, or a medical alert system for peace of mind. Other times, it may be worth exploring part-time in-home care or even considering longer-term plans for support.

Above all, remind your loved one that asking for help is not giving up independence. Additional support creates a path forward that your loved one safe, supported, and thriving at home for as long as possible.