5 Signs to Watch for in Aging Family Members This Holiday Season
Cozy up in your favorite pajamas, gather around a warm fire, and bake a batch of holiday cookies. This season is all about celebrating, reconnecting, and showing love to those who mean the most to us. And while it’s a joyous time, it’s also the perfect opportunity to check in on everyone’s well-being, especially our cherished aging family members.
During holiday visits, spending time with our older loved ones allows us to notice any changes in their health, mobility, or daily habits. Often, they’ve lived rich lives, full of experiences, and have so much wisdom to share. But aging can bring its own set of challenges, so this season, take a few moments to see how they’re really doing. Here are six key areas to keep in mind as you visit and care for your family members this holiday season.
1. Mobility & Daily Tasks
Mobility is essential for maintaining independence in daily activities. Take note if your loved one is finding it difficult to get out of bed, stand up, or move around easily. Painful or limited mobility can be common with aging, especially in joints and muscles. If you observe that tasks like dressing or bathing are becoming harder for them, it might be time to discuss options for extra support or senior living arrangements.
2. Eating Well and Safely
Eating well is vital, but for aging adults, meal preparation can become challenging. Limited mobility or arthritis can make it harder to lift pots or chop ingredients, and cooking on a stove may pose safety risks. Aging can also reduce one’s sense of taste or smell, so your loved one may not notice if food has spoiled. During your visit, take a quick look at their pantry and fridge, check expiration dates, and ensure they have access to fresh, balanced meals.
3. Keeping Up with Medications
Many seniors rely on daily medications, some of which are essential for health. If you’re spending a few days together, observe their medication routine to ensure they’re staying on track. Forgetting doses or accidentally taking extra can have serious health consequences. If you notice any inconsistencies, consider discussing options for medication reminders or supportive care in the home or a senior community.
4. Changes in Behavior or Personality
Dementia or cognitive decline can bring unexpected shifts in behavior or personality, from outbursts to increased anxiety. Aging adults may feel anxious as they sense changes in their abilities, and it’s natural for them to feel afraid of what’s happening. If you notice concerning or frequent behavior changes, this could be a sign they need more support or a structured, compassionate care environment.
5. Frequent Medical Appointments
Health needs often increase with age, leading to more regular medical appointments. If your loved one is seeing specialists more often or needs help arranging transportation, it may be time to discuss support options. Consider whether home care, day programs, or a senior living community might help ease the stress of managing frequent visits.
During this special season, we have a meaningful chance to offer our love and attention to our aging family members. Checking in on these areas not only supports their well-being but also reassures you and your family that they’re receiving the care and assistance they need, both now and in the future.
Source: The Pavilion at Great Hills, November 2022
If you've got questions and are needed resources for you loved one, feel free to give me a call at (480) 513-1830. As a member of Senior Resource Connectors we have a collection of vetted services and professionals to assist your loved ones.
All the best, Charles
Charles C. Scott AIF®, CDP®
ACCREDITED INVESTMENT FIDUCIARY®CERTIFIED DEMENTIA PRACTITIONER®
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