After 60, the body generally begins a much higher rate of health decline than in previous years. While the rate of decline can vary significantly from person to person, it may be time to start looking for signs of decline in your older loved ones. Keeping an eye out for some of these signs may help you and your family prepare for your loved one needing additional care at home, including hired assistance. Below, we will review several warning signs indicating a decline in overall health for older individuals.
Mobility Decline
Mobility is one of the easiest factors to spot because it is often the most obvious. Early signs may include your loved one may need help getting out of a chair, or leaning more when standing. They may need to start using a cane or other assistive device. As mobility worsens, they may require additional assistance around the home. Poor housekeeping may also be a sign of worsening mobility.
Signs of Mental Health Decline
With age, mental health can take a sharp downward turn. As your body begins to feel worse, and mobility worsens, many older adults suffer from mental health issues. Isolation and feelings of weakness can contribute heavily to mental health issues in elders. Common signs to look for can include depression, anxiety, excessive sleeping, social withdrawal, and lack of interest in hobbies or activities. Older adults make up a large portion of those struggling with mental health, and they often do not have the means or motive to treat it. Because of the stigmas of mental health in older generations, they are much less likely to talk about their symptoms or seek help.
Declining Hygiene and Self-Care
As an older individual’s condition worsens, they may have a harder time managing their hygiene and care routine. This can include bathing care, brushing their teeth, or even skin care routines. They may not be able to keep up with shaving or getting haircuts.
Diet and Appetite
You may notice changes in your loved one’s diet and appetite. An older person may experience significant changes in weight if they are unable to provide themselves with proper meals. They may lose weight from not eating enough, or not eating at all. In some cases, individuals will gain weight, as they may turn to fast food, microwave meals, or other options that may be less healthy than a home-cooked meal. Some elders may eat much more than they usually would at family gatherings because food is available. On the other hand, signs of dramatic appetite loss can be a sign of decline too. Be aware that changes in appetite and weight can also be a side effect of medications your loved one might be prescribed.
Signs of Cognitive Decline
Cognitive decline can be caused by several things, including aging in general. But it is important to address it early, so help can be administered if needed. Cognitive decline can manifest in several ways. Forgetfulness, confusion, wandering, mood swings, and memory loss are some common signs. If your loved one is showing signs of dementia, it can be important to address this with a doctor sooner rather than later.
Physical Injuries
Bruises, cuts, scrapes, sore spots, and general signs of pain can be common in older adults. Your skin is more likely to bruise or break as your skin naturally thins with age. However, frequent or unexplainable injuries can signal declining health. Injuries could be from falls, slips, and other injuries common in older adults. Keep in mind that other injuries can also be a sign of elder abuse, especially if they are in areas that are associated with defensive wounds (outer forearms, neck, back, etc.). It is always important to look for signs of elder abuse when looking into the health and safety of your older loved one.
In-Home Care and Signs of Decline
If you notice that your loved one’s health is declining, or that they may be unable to care for themselves fully, you may want to consider care options. A certified home health aide from Safe Harbor can assist with daily hygiene care, meal prep, companionship, doctor’s visits, and more.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services does not provide medical, healthcare, or financial advice via articles. This material has been prepared for informational purposes only. It is not intended to provide, and should not be relied on for advice.
Safe Harbor Healthcare Services has provided excellent home care on Staten Island since 1967. Our services help older and disabled individuals live safely and independently; while giving their families the peace of mind they need. For more information contact us or call (718)-979-6900.
