Know when it’s time to seek support.
As our parents and older family members age, small changes in their behaviour or routines can be easy to overlook. But what may seem like minor forgetfulness or fatigue could actually be early signs that they need extra support.
At Home Instead Lewes District and Uckfield, we believe in empowering families to recognise these subtle but important indicators. That’s why we’ve launched our ‘Spot the Signs’ campaign – to help you identify when to seek external support.
Some of the most common early warning signs include:
Unopened mail piling up
Missed medication or confusion with doses
Burnt or expired food in the kitchen
Difficulty keeping up with hygiene or grooming
Declining balance or falls
Lack of interest in meals or weight changes
Isolation, confusion, or low mood
These are more than just ‘getting older’ – they could point to health concerns, cognitive issues, or mobility challenges.
Ignoring these changes or putting off conversations can lead to greater stress down the line – for both your loved one and your family.
The ‘Spot the Signs’ checklist, developed by Home Instead, guides you through assessing your loved one’s:
Safety at home
Nutrition and hydration
Physical and emotional health
Personal hygiene
Scam awareness
Ability to manage life admin like bills and appointments
If several boxes raise concern, it may be time to seek professional advice and explore how care at home can help.
We understand how emotional and overwhelming it can be to start this journey. That’s why our Care Professionals provide trusted, compassionate support tailored to each client’s needs.
Whether it’s companionship, home help, personal care, or specialist dementia care, we’re here to help older adults thrive safely at home- and to support families like yours every step of the way.
Want to learn more? Join us for our Spot the Signs information evening:
This is a welcoming, no-pressure evening designed for anyone concerned about an older adult in their life. Whether you’re already caring for someone or just beginning to notice changes, we encourage you to attend.