7 early warning signs your loved one is struggling at home
Spotting these signs doesn’t mean rushing to full-time care. In fact, the best time to act is before a crisis happens. Here are 7 early warning signs your loved one is struggling at home.
As carers, we often want to believe our loved ones are doing fine at home, especially when they insist they’re managing “just fine.” But behind closed doors, small changes in behaviour or routine can signal that they’re starting to struggle. The earlier we notice the signs, the sooner we can step in with support that keeps them safe, comfortable and independent.
Here are 7 early warning signs that may indicate it’s time to start a conversation, and consider some extra help at home.
1. Their home is becoming messier or less safe.
Has the once-tidy kitchen become cluttered with dishes? Is laundry piling up? Are lights left unfixed or walkways becoming tripping hazards?
A noticeable decline in housekeeping or home safety often means someone is overwhelmed or physically unable to keep up. It might seem small at first but it’s one of the clearest signs they could use some help around the house.
2. They’re not keeping up with personal care.
If your loved one is wearing the same clothes several days in a row, not showering regularly, or avoiding grooming tasks like shaving or brushing hair, it’s worth paying attention.
This could be due to physical limitations, memory issues, or even fear of falling in the bathroom. Whatever the reason, a bit of support like help with showering, dressing, or setting up a safer bathroom, can ease the stress and help them feel more confident and comfortable everyday.
3. Unopened mail, missed appointments or forgotten medications
Stacks of unopened letters, unpaid bills or missed appointments can signal memory problems, confusion or general overwhelm.
Similarly, if medications are being skipped or taken inconsistently it can lead to serious health risks. Support at home can help manage these small tasks before they turn into major concerns.
4. Withdrawal from their usual social activities or hobbies.
If your loved one used to enjoy weekly catch-ups, hobbies or outings but now avoids them, it could be more than just “slowing down.”
Isolation is a red flag. It can stem from low energy, mobility challenges, depression or anxiety, and it can quickly spiral.
With the right in-home support, they don’t have to miss out. A support worker can help them stay connected, whether that means encouraging regular visitors, assisting with phone or video calls, or even accompanying them to community activities, appointments, or social groups. Sometimes, just knowing someone’s there to support them is all it takes to rebuild confidence and connection.
5. Weight changes or poor nutrition.
A sudden weight loss or gain, expired food in the fridge or a lack of fresh groceries may indicate they’re struggling with meal planning, shopping or cooking.
Sometimes, just a bit of support in the kitchen, whether help with preparing meals, making shopping lists, attending grocery trips or even having a support worker check in during mealtimes to encourage regular eating, can bring back both confidence and nourishment.
6. Frequent mood swings or changes in behaviour.
Is your loved one more irritable, anxious, forgetful or withdrawn than usual?
These shifts could point to mental health challenges, confusion, or frustration at losing independence. Having a compassionate care team involved can ease stress for both them and you and support their emotional wellbeing at home.
7. Falls or Increased mobility issues.
Even a minor fall can have serious consequences not just physically, but emotionally too. If you’re noticing new bruises, unsteadiness when walking, or more reliance on furniture to get around, it could be a sign they’re not feeling safe or stable at home.
Early support can make a big difference. From help with walking and transfers, to safety modifications like grab rails or mobility aids, or even just having someone nearby during higher-risk tasks, these supports can reduce the risk of falls and give both you and your loved one peace of mind.
So, what can you do?
Spotting these signs doesn’t mean rushing to full-time care. In fact, the best time to act is before a crisis happens. Early, light-touch support at home is often all it takes to maintain independence and reduce risk.
That’s where we come in.
At Leora, we offer in-home disability supports and Support at Home aged care services tailored to your loved one’s needs. It can be just a few hours of weekly help around the house or more regular assistance with daily tasks, our flexible services grow with your family’s needs.
We’re here to support both you and your loved one with practical, everyday care that makes life easier. Our team builds trusted relationships with every family we work with—so your loved one feels supported, not just cared for.
Not sure where to start? Let’s chat.
If any of these signs sound familiar, don’t wait for things to get harder.
Reach out today to learn more about how Leora’s early intervention and in-home support services can bring peace of mind for you and your loved one.