The holiday season is a joyful time when we can relax and enjoy our family, but it’s also when we might notice signs that our elderly parents need help. We never want to think about that – particularly during the holidays – but we can face a severe health crisis if we disregard the warning signs.

When you visit with your parents next, here are some things to look for. If you aren’t satisfied with the answers, gently take note to come back to these items at a more appropriate time.

Do your elderly parents need help managing their health?

1. You can respectfully inquire about their health in conversation, asking whether they’ve had their regular check-up with their doctor. Ask about any new issues or complaints and plan to address them.
2. Medication management can become more complicated as we age. Look for the following. Do you notice expired prescriptions or bottles with several different pills in one bottle?
3. Do they know what pills they are supposed to take, at what time and for what reason?

Are they presenting with cognitive limitations?

Warning signs include the following.

1. Is Dad having more difficulty understanding the conversations? Is it his hearing, or does he seem unable to follow the topic of discussion?
2. Does Mom appear more anxious, frustrated or stressed than usual?
3. Are there some inappropriate things being said?
4. Have your parents arrived at your home and for the first time forgot to bring presents for the children?

Do functional issues mean your elderly parents need help with daily activities?

1. If your elderly parent is hosting the event, do you notice they seem overwhelmed in preparing the meal?
2. Are they having mobility issues and fatigue you haven’t noticed before?
3. Is the laundry still upstairs when you arrive because Dad cannot negotiate those basement stairs to get to the washer?

If you notice your elderly parents having difficulty coping over this holiday season, don’t wait until crisis strikes. Heed the warning signs your elderly parents need help and plan with them so you are all prepared for what may come. Learn how to help your parents plan for late-in-life changes.

You may also be interested in:

Are You Overwhelmed by Your Elderly Parent’s Sudden Health Crisis

Spotting the Signs: Does an Elderly Loved One’s Living Situation Need to Change?

The Mayo Clinic offers more signs to watch for with your aging parents.