Holidays With Aging Parents: 7 Problem Signs and Solutions

Holidays with aging parents grow more precious as the years go by. They may become more important too, for your parents’ well-being. If this is the only time you see them during the year, you may notice creeping problems not so obvious to others.

Senior-care experts often recommend a watchful eye around the holidays. Here are some signs to look for, with potential solutions.

Sign 1: Altered Appearance
Has their appearance, personal hygiene or housekeeping changed?

Solutions: Consider a home-care aide. Or, if pain is causing shortcuts, assistive devices for arthritis may help. (Various things can cause weight loss, including depression. Consider it with other signs.)

Sign 2: Memory Changes
Do your aging parents seem more forgetful or repetitive?

Solutions: Not all memory problems are signs of dementia. Reference these guidelines from the Alzheimer’s Association.

Sign 3: Mood Changes
Do you notice mood differences or signs of depression?

Solutions: Consult an expert. This article from Good Morning America recommends using terms like “out of sorts,” “tired” or “unhappy” instead of “depression” when approaching seniors. Talk them into going to the doctor for their health, it says. Then tell the doctor of your concerns.

Sign 4: Mobility Problems
Are your parents unsteady or moving more slowly?

Solutions: Help them remove fall hazards and install safety measures. Moving to a retirement or assisted living community may also be in order.

Sign 5: Medication Issues
Are they taking appropriate medication doses—and on time? Forgetfulness and budget concerns are potential stumbling blocks.

Solutions: Medication-reminder devices are available, as are financial aid and cost-saving measures their doctor can recommend, such as taking generics.

Sign 6: Money Questions
Are your aging parents making risky decisions—gambling or overspending? Are bills unopened?

Solutions: Discover the underlying problem: forgetfulness or poor judgment (potential signs of dementia), being taken advantage of, budget problems, feeling overwhelmed?

Sign 7: Food Problems
Make sure they have enough and that it’s not spoiled.

Solutions: Home-care aides can help run errands and cook.

Tomorrow, we’ll talk about how to start a conversation if you find things that concern you.

Disclaimer: This article is meant as general information, not personal advice. The problems listed can be signs of various health issues. If you’re concerned, please consult a health-care professional.