For many, the holidays through November and December are an opportunity for people to spend time with their parents and other elderly loved ones. We wish nothing less than a joyful and relaxing holiday for everyone, but it may be prudent to keep an eye out for the following warning signs to ensure your loved ones are staying happy and healthy.
A Disinterest in the Holidays:
While it may seem unrelated, changes in a senior's holiday spirit, especially if they are normally festive, can hint at underlying emotional or cognitive challenges. As we all know, it isn’t rare to get stressed around the holidays, so keeping an eye out for the early signs of a slump is important for assessing a senior’s mental health.
Struggling with Holiday Traditions:
When seniors suffer from physical or mental impairments, the hobbies and traditions they once enjoyed can become difficult and discouraging. If Grandma skips the annual gingerbread house or arts and crafts with the grandchildren, it may be more than forgetfulness.
Confusion Around Gifts:
Misplacing gifts or confusion over who is giving and receiving gifts may be a sign of cognitive decline. Be sure to approach the topic gently and just look for insight into the senior’s thought process and memory.
Changes in Appearance or Hygiene:
It’s easy to forget a button or have a bad hair day over the winter holidays, but if the person in question is neglecting personal grooming or hygiene, they may be suffering from physical limitations or memory issues that make it difficult to maintain their appearance.
Social Withdrawal:
The holidays are a wonderful time to get together with your loved ones, but depression, anxiety, and exhaustion may make it difficult for seniors to socialize the way they want to. If a previously outgoing loved one starts to avoid social situations, it might be a sign of deeper issues.
Difficulty with Chores and Cleaning:
Spoiled food or unmanaged prescriptions could suggest potential challenges in managing daily tasks. Decreasing levels of energy and motivation or physical limitations may be the cause behind some seniors falling behind in the maintenance of their living space.
