1 in 3 adults over 65 falls each year, and falls are the leading cause of injury-related death for seniors. But falls are just one of many warning signs that your parent may need in-home care support.
Important: These signs don’t mean your parent needs a nursing home. Most can be addressed with part-time in-home care — even just a few hours per week.
The 10 Warning Signs
- Unexplained weight loss — skipping meals or forgetting to eat
- Declining hygiene — unwashed clothes, body odor, unkempt appearance
- Bruises or injuries — signs of falls they haven’t mentioned
- Expired food in the fridge — inability to manage groceries
- Unpaid bills or mail piling up — cognitive decline affecting finances
- Isolation from friends — stopped attending social activities
- Medication errors — missed doses, double doses, or wrong medications
- Unsafe driving — new dents, traffic tickets, or getting lost
- Mood changes — depression, anxiety, or unusual agitation
- Home in disarray — clutter, uncleaned dishes, neglected maintenance
What to Do Next
If you’ve noticed 3 or more of these signs, it’s time to explore home care options. Start with a free care assessment — a professional evaluates your parent’s needs and recommends the right level of support.