Signs a Senior May Be in Trouble

Many seniors do not ask for help – particularly because they often fear that they will be a burden to their families or lose their independence. Therefore, it is very important that their caregivers, grown children or other family members look for signs that may indicate that they need some assistance in their everyday lives.

More than half (52%) of family members presently caring for an older relative started doing so because the senior relative had an injury, illness or medical condition that left them less able to function independently. However, there are other issues, such as depression, poor nutrition, death of a spouse, isolation or loneliness that can further compromise an older relative’s physical and mental health in just a short period of time.

So how can you tell if your senior loved one needs extra help? Here are 5 signs that you're older relative may need assistance.

It is crucial that family members keep an eye out for their older loved ones and know how and when to assist them, even if the senior doesn't reach out and ask for the help himself.