Are you visiting older relatives during the holidays?

The holidays are a time when families traditionally come together and, for many families who are spread out across the country, this might be the first time they have seen elderly parents or other older relatives in a year. It may also be a time when adult children begin to notice changes in their parent’s behaviors or quality of life.

During visits with these loved ones, family members should pay special attention to certain signs that could indicate a loved one needs more help around the house, may need to move to a senior living community or is suffering from depression.

Some questions to ask yourself are:

Is anything different about their appearance? Have they lost weight? Have their personal hygiene habits changed? Are they dressed appropriately?

Observe their physical condition. Can they still walk up and down the stairs or get around the house? Can they grocery shop and prepare their own meals? Do they remember to take their medications? Can they bathe and use the bathroom without any help?

Also, look around the house. Do you see mail that is unopened or bills that have not been paid? Or prescriptions that have not been refilled? Is the house in disarray or disrepair? Stacks of newspapers piling up around the house?

Do you notice any changes in their mental condition? Are they still connected to others? Do they continue to participate in activities that they have always enjoyed?

Depending on what you see during your visit, it may be time to assess your loved one's living situation and think about getting them the appropriate help.

Families should also keep an eye out for signs of depression in older adults, especially in those who have recently suffered with health problems, the loss of a loved one or the loss of their social networks. Symptoms of depression can include marked changes in appetite, difficulty sleeping, feelings of guilt or hopelessness, loss of self-esteem, crying for no reason, social withdrawal and even an increase in physical aches and pains.

Older adults with depression are also more likely to be anxious, irritable or worried. Constantly wringing their hands, pacing the room or worrying obsessively about money or their health can also be signs of depression.

According to the American Psychological Association, an estimated 20 percent of older adults suffer from depression. Depression is not a normal part of aging, so if you sense that your older loved one may be depressed, give them support and get them the help that they need.

For more information about senior living options or the type of care given at retirement or assisted living communities, please call Morningside Ministries at (210) 731-1202.