It's not always easy to know when a family member may need more help. Sometimes the changes are subtle, and other times they can feel sudden. Recognising the signs early means you can provide support before a small issue becomes a bigger concern.
1. Struggles with Daily Tasks
If your loved one is finding it difficult to cook, clean, or manage laundry, this may signal the need for extra support.
2. Changes in Personal Hygiene
Unwashed clothes, skipped baths, or difficulties with grooming are clear indicators that help may be required.
3. Forgetfulness or Confusion
Repeatedly missing appointments, forgetting to take medication, or getting confused in familiar surroundings may be linked to memory loss or dementia.
4. Mobility Issues
Increased falls, difficulty climbing stairs, or hesitancy when walking can put independence — and safety — at risk.
5. Withdrawal or Loneliness
Social isolation often leads to depression and anxiety. If your loved one is withdrawing from activities they once enjoyed, companionship support may help.
Final Thoughts
Needing support is not a loss of independence — it's a way of preserving it. With the right help, your loved one can continue living safely and happily in their own home.
