Recognizing Subtle Signs of Change in Your Loved Ones This Holiday Season

As the holidays approach, many families across Canada are getting ready to gather to share meals, laughter, and long-awaited moments together. For some, this is the first time in months (or even years) that everyone will be under the same roof again.

While these visits are filled with joy and connection, they also offer an important opportunity: a chance to quietly check in on the health and wellbeing of the people we love, especially aging parents or relatives.

Sometimes, changes that go unnoticed day-to-day become more apparent when we spend extended time together. And while it’s not always easy to acknowledge, being aware of these signs can help families plan, support, and ensure their loved ones continue to live safely and comfortably at home.

Subtle Signs That Something Might Be Changing

When we think of age-related decline or cognitive changes, we often expect something dramatic. But in reality, the early signs can be quite subtle. During your holiday visits, pay attention to things like:

• Changes in routine: If a loved one who’s usually organized seems forgetful, misses appointments, or struggles to keep track of time, that could signal something more than holiday stress.
• Neglected household tasks: Stacks of unopened mail, unwashed dishes, or expired food in the fridge might suggest daily routines are becoming harder to manage.
• Mood or behaviour shifts: Increased irritability, confusion, or withdrawal from social activities can sometimes be early indicators of depression or cognitive decline.
• Physical changes: Noticeable weight loss, unsteady movement, or changes in grooming habits may point to challenges with mobility, nutrition, or self-care.
• Medication mix-ups: Difficulty remembering whether pills have been taken or confusion about dosages is a red flag that extra support could be needed.

These changes don’t automatically mean there’s a serious problem, but they’re worth discussing, gently and respectfully, with your loved one and their healthcare provider.

Why It’s Important to Pay Attention Early

Catching these shifts early gives families more options. It allows time to explore supportive care, make adjustments at home, or bring in help before small issues become big challenges.

It also helps protect independence. With the right kind of home support – like companionship, personal care, or medication reminders – many seniors can continue living safely and confidently in their own homes for years to come.

At Everest Home Health Care, we see the difference early intervention can make every day. A little extra help, a consistent routine, and compassionate companionship can make life not only safer but also more fulfilling for our clients and their families.

Navigating Holiday Emotions

It’s completely normal for these realizations to feel emotional. The holidays are meant to be joyful, and noticing signs of change in someone you love can bring up worry or sadness. But it’s also a reminder of what matters most: family, connection, and care.

Try to approach these moments with grace. Instead of jumping straight into problem-solving, start by listening. Offer reassurance and support. And remember that asking for help isn’t a loss of independence, it’s a step toward maintaining it.

Moving Forward with Care and Compassion

If this holiday season brings to light that a loved one might need a bit more support, know that you don’t have to figure it out alone.

We help families across Ontario find peace of mind through professional, compassionate, and personalized care at home. Whether it’s a few hours of help each week or more comprehensive daily care, we’ll work with you to build a plan that meets your loved one’s needs, and supports your family every step of the way.

Home should always be a place of comfort, safety, and love, especially during the holidays.

If you’d like to talk about how home care could support your loved one this winter, reach out to our team today.