Often, it’s clear when an elderly individual requires additional support. Signs such as difficulty in attending appointments, confusion over simple instructions, or irregularities in managing finances can be obvious indicators. However, these changes usually occur gradually, highlighting the importance of a professional evaluation. Such an assessment comprehensively examines an individual’s mental, physical, and environmental health, determining if they need assistance to maintain safe independence, and identifies potential risks and strategies to mitigate them.
Family members and caregivers play a crucial role in assessing the well-being, safety, and quality of life of their elderly relatives. “Early detection of subtle signs is key to prevent significant impact on daily life, allowing timely interventions,” states Ardeshir Hashmi, M.D., head of the Center for Geriatric Medicine at Cleveland Clinic.
Keep an eye out for these warning signs, which could indicate the need for further assessment and additional support: