Holiday Gatherings: How to Know if Your Loved One Needs Care

The holiday season is usually filled with joyful and warm family gatherings. We visit our older relatives that we might not see throughout the year as much. While this can be a happy time (especially with Temecula/Murrieta’s abundance of sunshine), it can also bring hard truths where we notice subtle changes in our loved one’s appearance and behavior. Some of these changes may be harmless, but others can be early warning signs that they might benefit from in-home care.

Forgetfulness or Confusion with Gifts

Forgetting a name or misplacing an item occasionally is natural. However, if your loved one forgets whom they bought a gift for, gives inappropriate gifts, or seems confused by the act of gift-giving, it could indicate cognitive challenges. Approach the topic gently, asking them about the story or thought behind the gift. This can offer insight into their thought process and memory.

Changes in Personal Appearance

While everyone wants to look their best for the holidays, pay attention to any drastic or uncharacteristic changes in your loved one’s appearance. This can include wearing the same clothes repeatedly, unkempt hair, or neglecting hygiene. Personal grooming plays a significant role in one’s self-esteem and overall well-being. Such changes can stem from physical limitations or memory challenges, emphasizing the need to ensure they remain safe and well cared for in the future.

To learn how your loved one can live at home in the Temecula, Murrieta, and Menifee greater areas, please visit our website at Greater Temecula Providing Caregivers | Griswold (griswoldcare.com), call/text 951-346-1352, or email nolan.chandler@griswoldhomecare.com.