The Signs to Look Out for This Christmas: Supporting Older Adults at Home

The festive season is a wonderful time for celebration, family, and warmth. But it can also bring challenges for older adults, especially those who live independently. Being attentive to subtle changes in their health, mood, and home environment is key to ensuring they stay safe, happy, and well cared for this Christmas.

At Right at Home Weybridge & Richmond, we help families recognise the warning signs that may indicate an older adult needs support and provide compassionate guidance on introducing homecare.

Physical Changes to Watch For

Physical wellbeing is often the first area where changes become noticeable. Some signs to look out for include:

• Increased difficulty with mobility – struggling to move around the house, rising from chairs, or walking outside.
  
  

• Unexplained bruises or injuries – bumps or cuts without a clear cause could indicate falls or other accidents.
  
  

• Weight loss or poor appetite – skipping meals, eating less than usual, or losing weight unexpectedly.
  
  

Spotting these changes early can prevent accidents and help maintain independence and quality of life.

Cognitive or Emotional Shifts

Mental health and cognition may also show subtle changes during the busy holiday season. Look for:

• Forgetting appointments, names, or everyday tasks - repeated lapses can indicate memory issues or cognitive decline.
  
  

• Increased confusion or disorientation - trouble understanding instructions or navigating familiar spaces.
  
  

• Mood changes or withdrawal - signs of depression, anxiety, or loss of interest in usual activities.
  
  

Recognising these signs allows families to provide timely support, reducing stress and improving overall wellbeing.

Concerns Around the Home Environment

The state of the home can also reveal if an older adult is struggling with daily routines:

• Poor hygiene or neglected household tasks - laundry left undone, clutter, or personal care neglected.
  
  

• Stacks of unopened mail or spoiled food - indicating difficulties with organisation or meal preparation.
  
  

• Empty cupboards or irregular shopping - signs that maintaining nutrition and household needs is becoming challenging.
  
  

These observations often highlight the areas where homecare support can make a real difference.

How to Talk About Homecare

Bringing up homecare can feel sensitive, especially during the festive season. Here are tips to make the conversation easier:

1. Choose the right moment - pick a calm, relaxed time when your loved one feels comfortable.
   
   

2. Express care, not concern - frame the conversation around their safety and enjoyment, rather than problems.
   
   

3. Focus on positive outcomes - emphasise companionship, support with activities, and maintaining independence.
   
   

4. Involve them in every step - let them help decide what care looks like, so they feel respected and empowered.
   
   

Homecare doesn’t take away independence; it enhances it. With the right support, older adults can enjoy Christmas safely and comfortably at home.

How Right at Home Weybridge & Richmond Can Help

At Right at Home Weybridge & Richmond, we provide compassionate, personalised homecare to support older adults in every aspect of daily life - from personal care and companionship to household tasks and festive preparations.

This Christmas, make sure your loved one feels safe, happy, and included. Contact our friendly team today to arrange a free homecare assessment and discover how we can help your family enjoy the season with peace of mind.