What are the signs an aging parent needs help?

It is often easier to tell whether an older person needs help during an in-person visit rather than over the phone. Some signs you can be on the lookout for as a caregiver include the person: Withdrawing from activities Forgetting to take medication Not taking care of themselves or their home These signs may seem small, but they are crucial for an aging parent or relative's safety and well-being. If you are far away—and with the person's permission— you could contact people who see the person regularly and ask them to call you with any concerns. Examples of these people may include neighbors, friends, doctors, or local relatives. When you do visit, look for safety issues and at the overall condition of the home, and try to determine the older person's mood and general health status. Sometimes people confuse depression in older people with normal aging. A depressed older person might brighten up for a phone call or short visit, but it is harder to hide serious mood problems during an extended visit. Learn more about the signs an aging parent may need help. Share this information with others on social media: How can you tell if an aging parent needs help? Check out these signs to help you recognize serious changes in behavior: https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/what-are-signs-aging-parent-needs-help