Far too often, aging adults exhibit health symptoms that are cause for concern but remain unnoticed or overlooked because many assume these seemingly minor health concerns simply go hand in hand with aging. It’s important to pay attention to even the most minor changes in physical, mental, or emotional health as an aging parent grows older. Little things like changes in appetite or mood can signal serious health conditions. Here are five symptoms seniors should never ignore.
1. Changes in Cognitive Health
Mental health issues such as dementia are significant factors to consider in aging adults. Common symptoms include changes in mood, sleeping habits, social interactions, eating habits, or energy levels as well as memory loss, moments of disorientation, or the inability to work with numbers. The sooner dementia is diagnosed, the sooner treatment can begin to protect your loved one’s cognitive health.If your loved one is diagnosed with dementia, compassionate assistance is just a phone call away. Fordementia care Des Moinesfamilies can count on, reach out to Home Care Assistance. Our compassionate caregivers use revolutionary memory care programs to help seniors stave off the progression of dementia, and they can also assist with a wide variety of important everyday tasks, including bathing, grooming, exercise, and cooking.
2. Depression
Depression among seniors is another cause for concern that often goes unnoticed. As social interactions become less frequent, exercise dwindles to a minimum, and seniors become housebound, depression is likely to set in. An in-home caregiver is a great solution, as the caregiver can act as a daily companion, encourage and accompany your loved one during exercise, and help with mobility in and outside the home. If depression is left untreated, it can lead to a rapid decrease in physical and mental health.
3. Confusion
Confusion can be a major symptom older adults experience when they have pneumonia. Therefore, caregivers should look for mental health signs as well as a dry cough or breathing difficulties, as these symptoms can be less obvious in seniors.
4. Dehydration
Many medications can cause dehydration. Due to a lack of energy along with aches and pains, older adults may be less willing to drink plenty of fluids. Additionally, with age, the sense of thirst decreases and the kidneys aren’t able to retain as much water. Dehydration can lead to serious ailments like urinary tract infections and pneumonia, both of which are very dangerous for older adults and could require hospitalization if not caught early enough.There are a variety of age-related health conditions that can make it more challenging for seniors to live independently. However, many of the challenges they face can be easier to address if their families opt for professional elderly home care. You can rely on expertly trained caregivers to keep your loved one safe and comfortable while aging in place.
5. Possible Stroke Symptoms
Stroke symptoms such as vision problems, numbness, speech difficulties, cognitive issues, difficulty with motor skills, headaches, and even sudden feelings of apathy shouldn’t be overlooked. It’s important to spot these potential stroke symptoms and get your loved one to a hospital as soon as possible because there’s only a small window of time in which a person can receive a vital clot-dissolving drug.If your elderly loved one needs help maintaining a high quality of life while aging in place, reach out to Home Care Assistance, a trusted provider of Des Moines home care.Our caregivers provide transportation to and from medical appointments and social events, nutritious meal preparation, assistance with daily exercise, and help with everyday tasks like bathing, grooming, and light housekeeping. For reliable in-home care services, contact us at (515) 264-2438.
