5 Signs Your Parents May Need More Assistance—and How to Start the Conversation

Written By Brendie Mitchell

By Shari Knight

As our loved ones age, it’s natural to start worrying about their well-being and safety. You might notice small changes at first, but as these signs become more frequent, it could indicate that your parents need additional care. Spotting these signs early can help you ensure they get the support they need before a crisis arises. Below, we discuss five key indicators that your parents may need more assistance and offer tips on how to approach this delicate conversation.

1. Health and Mobility Issues

One of the first signs that your parents might need more help is if they’re having difficulty with daily activities like bathing, dressing, or walking. These are fundamental tasks that affect their independence and quality of life.

  • Why It Matters: Loss of mobility can lead to falls and injuries, which are serious risks for older adults.

2. Medication Management

Are your parents struggling to manage their medications? Missing doses, taking the wrong medication, or forgetting entirely are common issues as people age, and they can have serious health implications.

  • Why It Matters: Improper medication management can lead to health complications or hospitalizations.

3. Safety Concerns

Take a look around your parents’ home. Is it cluttered? Are there tripping hazards, poor lighting, or malfunctioning equipment? These environmental factors can be dangerous for seniors living alone.

  • Why It Matters: An unsafe home environment increases the risk of accidents and injuries.

4. Cognitive Decline

Signs of memory loss or confusion, such as getting lost in familiar places or having trouble with simple tasks, could indicate that your parents need more supervision.

  • Why It Matters: Cognitive decline can lead to dangerous situations, like leaving the stove on or getting lost while driving.

5. Social Isolation

Has your parent stopped participating in social activities or lost interest in hobbies they once enjoyed? Social isolation can contribute to a decline in mental and physical health.

  • Why It Matters: Loneliness and isolation are linked to higher rates of depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline.

How to Start the Conversation

Recognizing these signs is the first step. The next step is to have a conversation with your parents about their care needs. This can be a challenging discussion, but it’s essential for their well-being. Here’s how to approach it:

Choose the Right Time and Setting

Find a calm, private moment where you can talk without interruptions. This will make the conversation more comfortable for both you and your parents.

Express Your Feelings with Empathy

Start by sharing your feelings and concerns in a gentle and non-confrontational way. For example, you might say, “I’ve been thinking a lot about how things have been going lately, and I’m feeling a bit worried about your health and well-being.”

Focus on Their Needs

Frame the conversation around their needs rather than any shortcomings. A good way to start is by saying, “I’ve noticed that some tasks seem to be getting more challenging, and I want to make sure you’re getting the support you need.”

Offer Specific Examples

If it’s helpful, mention specific instances that have led to your concern. For example, “I noticed you had a hard time with [specific task], and it made me worried about how things are going.”

Discuss Options and Solutions

Offer concrete suggestions or solutions, such as getting more help at home, considering a caregiver, or talking to a healthcare professional. You might say, “Maybe we could look into some support services or get a professional’s advice to help with [specific area]. What do you think?”

Listen and Be Reassuring

Give them a chance to share their feelings and listen carefully. Reassure them that you’re there to support them, no matter what. For example, “I just want to make sure you’re comfortable and getting the care you deserve. I’m here to help with whatever you need.”

Respect Their Autonomy

Be mindful of their feelings and autonomy. They may have their own ideas about how they want to manage their care, so approach the conversation with respect for their choices.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you’re seeing the signs that your parents may need more help, now is the time to start planning. Waiting until an emergency arises is never ideal. At Aging Well, we’re here to walk you through this process, offering support and guidance every step of the way.

Book a Discovery Call with Shari Knight

Need personalized advice on how to navigate this sensitive topic? Our caregiving expert, Shari Knight, is available for a one-on-one discovery call. Whether you need help assessing your parents' needs or exploring care options, Shari is here to assist.

Schedule Your Call Today

We’re Here to Help

The key is to approach the discussion with compassion and understanding, and to work together to find solutions that make them feel supported and valued. At Aging Well, we offer a range of resources from in-home care services to assisted living options tailored to your parents’ specific needs.

For more information on how to ensure your parents receive the care they need, check out these additional resources:

Let us provide a helping hand as you navigate this important transition in your family’s life.

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Brendie Mitchell
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