Your Elderly Parent’s Health
When you’re around your parents all the time, it’s easy to miss the little changes in your parent’s health. But sometimes, those little things add up and point to something more serious going on. If you’ve been getting that gut feeling that something’s just not quite right with your mom or dad lately, it might be time to take a closer look. Here are five signs that your parent’s health might be slipping a bit and what you can do to help.
They’re struggling to hear more often
It might start off small. They ask you to repeat yourself a lot, or they have the TV blaring at full volume. Maybe they don’t join in conversations as much as they used to, especially in noisy places like cafés or restaurants. Hearing loss in older age is really common, but it can also affect their confidence and how much they engage with the world around them. One of the best things you can do is help them perform a comprehensive hearing evaluation. It’s quick, straightforward, and can make a huge difference to their quality of life if it turns out they need hearing support.
Their memory’s not quite what it used to be
Everyone forgets things now and then, but if your parent is regularly misplacing items, repeating stories, or missing appointments, it could be a sign of cognitive decline. You don’t need to panic at the first slip-up, but if it starts happening more often, it’s worth keeping track. It might just be normal ageing, but it could also be early signs of something like dementia. Having a gentle chat about your concerns can be the first step to getting them some support.
They’ve become a bit unsteady on their feet
Has your parent started holding onto walls or furniture as they move around? Maybe they’ve taken a few small tumbles or seem nervous about going out for walks. A loss of balance or mobility can really knock their confidence, and unfortunately, it also raises the risk of more serious falls. Even if they brush it off, it’s important to address. A walking aid or simple home adjustments could really help, and if needed, a physiotherapist can help build their strength back up.
They’re losing or gaining weight without trying
Weight changes can be one of the most obvious physical signs that something’s up with your elderly parent’s health. If your parent’s clothes are hanging off them or they suddenly seem puffier than usual, it’s worth asking a few gentle questions. Are they eating properly? Do they have an appetite? Are they forgetting meals? Sometimes it’s down to medication, other times it can be a sign of a more serious health condition. Either way, it’s best to bring it up early so they can get checked out.
They don’t seem like themselves anymore
This one’s a bit harder to explain, but you’ll know it when you feel it. Maybe your usually chatty dad is quiet and withdrawn, or your once upbeat mum is suddenly irritable or low. Changes in mood or personality can be linked to anything from depression to a physical illness. Trust your instincts regarding your parent’s health. If something feels off, it probably is, and it’s worth encouraging them to speak to their GP.
