5 Signs an Older Adult May Need More Support

Knowing what to look for can help your loved one stay safe, healthy, and independent.

It can be hard to know when an older adult needs help. Small changes often happen slowly, making them easy to miss. Knowing the signs early can help your loved one stay safe, healthy, and independent for longer.

If you’ve been asking yourself, “Does an older adult in my life need help?” or “Is it time to get extra support?” you’re not alone. This guide will help you recognize five common signs that an older adult may need more support and what you can do next.

5 Signs an Older Adult Needs Help

1. Everyday Tasks Are Becoming Harder

Think about the things your loved one does every day. They may need more support if they have trouble:

Getting dressed
Taking a shower or bath
Making meals
Taking medicine on time
Walking safely
Doing laundry or housework

These are called Activities of Daily Living (ADLs). When these tasks become difficult, it may be time to ask for extra help.Learn more about caring for older adults on the National Institute on Aging website.

Link: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/caregiving

2. You’re Seeing More Memory Problems

Everyone forgets things once in a while. But frequent memory problems may be a sign that your loved one needs more support.

Watch for signs like:

Missing appointments
Forgetting to take medicine
Asking the same question many times
Getting lost in familiar places
Feeling confused about the day or time

The Alzheimer’s Association has helpful information about the early signs of Alzheimer’s and dementia, and when it’s time to talk with a healthcare provider.

3. Home Safety Is Becoming a Concern

Take a look around your loved one’s home.

Ask yourself:

Is food going bad in the refrigerator?
Are bills piling up?
Is the home becoming messy?
Have they fallen recently?
Are they leaving the stove on or forgetting to lock the door?

These changes may mean they need extra help to stay safe at home. Looking for more home safety tips? Read our blog Summer Fall Prevention for Seniors: 10 Safety Tips.

4. Managing Health Is Becoming More Difficult

Many older adults live with more than one health condition.

They may need extra support if they:

Have several doctor appointments
Take many medicines
Visit the emergency room often
Have been in the hospital more than once
Have trouble getting to appointments

Managing healthcare can become stressful for both older adults and family caregivers. Learn how the PACE program helps coordinate healthcare, transportation, therapy, and other services for eligible older adults.

5. You Feel Overwhelmed as a Caregiver

Taking care of someone you love is rewarding, but it can also be hard.

You may need extra support if you:

Feel tired most days
Worry about your loved one’s safety
Feel unsure about what to do next
Feel like you’re doing everything alone

Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength.

Caregiver Checklist

If you notice several of these signs, an older adult may need help with daily activities or healthcare. If you answered yes to several of these questions, it may be time to learn about additional support.

✔ Trouble with everyday tasks

✔ Memory changes

✔ Safety concerns at home

✔ Health needs are becoming harder to manage

✔ Caregiver stress

Frequently Asked Questions

Does needing help mean someone has to move into a nursing home?

No. Many older adults receive extra support while continuing to live safely at home.

When should I ask for help?

The sooner you ask, the more options you may have. Getting help early may prevent falls, hospital visits, and caregiver burnout.

How can WelbeHealth help?

WelbeHealth’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) brings healthcare and support services together in one program. Depending on eligibility, participants may receive:

Primary care
Specialist care
Prescription medications
Transportation
Home care
Therapy services
Social activities
Meals

Everything is coordinated by one care team, making it easier for older adults to stay healthy and continue living at home.

You Don’t Have to Do It Alone

If you think an older adult needs help, talking with them early can make a big difference.

Learning about your options today can help your loved one stay healthy, independent, and living at home for as long as possible.

It’s your life. Live it your way.

At WelbeHealth, we believe older adults should have the support they need to live safely, confidently, and independently at home.

Through the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), we provide coordinated medical care, therapy, transportation, social activities, and personalized support designed around each participant’s unique needs.

Learn how WelbeHealth helps when an older adult needs help staying healthy and independent. If you or someone you love could benefit from extra support, we’re here to help.

Call (888) 750-0248 | TTY 711 or visit welbehealth.com/contact to learn more about WelbeHealth and see if PACE may be the right fit for you.