Spotting the Signs That Your Ageing Loved One May Need More Support at Home

Spotting the Signs That Your Ageing Loved One May Need More Support at Home

As our loved ones grow older, it’s natural for daily tasks to become a little more challenging. But when these challenges begin to affect their safety, health, or wellbeing, it may be time to consider additional support. Because you know your loved one better than anyone, you’re often the first to notice subtle changes. Changes that, over time, can add up to a bigger concern.

At Home Instead Beverley and Hull, we understand how worrying it can feel when you’re unsure whether Mum, Dad, or another family member is coping at home. To help you navigate this stage, here are some key signs that may indicate your loved one needs a little more assistance to continue living safely and comfortably at home.

Missed or Incorrect Medication

Medication routines can become more complicated with age, especially if someone is managing several prescriptions. You might notice:

• Pills left in organisers at the end of the day
• Confusion about dosage or timing
• Medication being taken twice
• Difficulty opening packaging or reading labels

Missed or mismanaged medication can have serious consequences, but it’s also one of the most common issues older adults face. Support from a Care Professional can ensure medications are taken safely and on time, offering peace of mind to families.

Spoiled Food or Bare Cupboards

Take a look in the fridge or pantry the next time you visit. Expired food, mouldy leftovers, or empty cupboards may indicate that your loved one is struggling with:

• Planning and preparing meals
• Remembering to eat regularly
• Getting out to the shops
• Managing appliances safely

Changes in appetite or eating habits can also be linked to health issues, mood changes, or mobility challenges. Care Pros can assist with shopping, meal preparation, and encouraging healthy eating habits.

Safety Concerns in the Kitchen

The kitchen often reveals early signs of difficulty. You may notice:

• The oven or hob being left on
• Burnt pots or scorch marks
• Difficulty recalling how to operate appliances
• Items placed in unusual or illogical locations (e.g., tea towels in the fridge, food in cupboards where it doesn’t belong)

These moments may be small individually, but collectively they create real safety risks. Having a trained Care Professional checking in, preparing meals, or supporting with kitchen tasks can significantly reduce the risk of accidents.

Memory Lapses and Confusion

Mild forgetfulness can be perfectly normal with age. However, you may want to pay closer attention if your loved one is:

• Repeating the same questions
• Forgetting familiar names or places
• Missing appointments
• Struggling to follow conversations
• Getting lost or disoriented

Support at home can help maintain routines, reduce confusion, and ensure a safer living environment.

Mobility and Balance Issues

If your loved one seems unsteady or hesitant when walking, it may suggest their mobility is changing. Look for:

• Increased reliance on furniture for support
• Difficulty getting up from chairs or beds
• Bruises from possible falls
• Avoidance of stairs or certain rooms

Reduced mobility can quickly impact independence, confidence, and overall safety. Care Pros can provide gentle mobility assistance, fall-prevention support, and help with staying active.

Changes in Personal Hygiene

Neglecting personal care can be a sensitive topic, but it’s an important sign to look out for. This may include:

• Wearing the same clothes repeatedly
• Strong body odour
• Greasy hair or unbrushed teeth
• Difficulty bathing or showering

Often, older adults avoid bathing because of fear of falling, slipping, or not being able to get back up. A caring, respectful Care Professional can provide discreet personal care, helping maintain comfort and dignity.

Shifts in Mood, Behaviour, or Social Interaction

Emotional wellbeing is just as important as physical health. You may notice:

• Withdrawing from activities or social events
• Increased irritability or anxiety
• Changes in sleep patterns
• A loss of interest in hobbies
• Signs of loneliness or sadness

Companionship is a core part of what we do at Home Instead. Regular visits from a friendly Care Pro can make a world of difference for someone who may be feeling isolated.

How Home Instead Beverley and Hull Can Help

Recognising these signs doesn’t mean your loved one must leave the home they cherish. Our Care Professionals are trained to provide support tailored to each person’s needs.  Whether that’s help with meals, medication reminders, personal care, companionship, mobility support, or creating a safer home environment.

Even a few hours of support each week can:

• Reduce safety risks
• Improve wellbeing
• Preserve independence
• Give families peace of mind

Our goal is always to help older adults live safely, confidently, and happily in the place they call home.

If you’ve noticed changes in your loved one’s daily life and are unsure what to do next, we’re here to listen, guide, and help.

Contact Home Instead Beverley and Hull today to learn more about how we can support your family.