Top 5 Signs It’s Time for a Telecare Solution for Your Parent

Introduction:

If you do not see your loved ones regularly, you might be shocked by a decline in their health when you next visit. But if you see them all the time, it’s easy to miss that same deterioration, since it can sometimes happen gradually over a long period.

According to Age UK polling 2023, “79% of adults aged 40-60 worry they wouldn’t know how to support their older parent(s) in the future.” This uncertainty could stem from missing subtle signals that indicate a parent is beginning to struggle.

The good news is that there are common, observable signs that indicate a loved one’s independence is becoming compromised. Recognising these signs early is the first step toward providing support that maintains their dignity and quality of life.

In this blog, we highlight five key signs that indicate your parent or loved one could benefit from a telecare solution.

Let’s get started.

Key Signs of Health Deterioration

1: Increased Confusion

If you have noticed your loved ones or parents have become increasingly disoriented, confused, or tired, this could be a sign of health deterioration and the beginning of something that could be more serious, such as dementia, urinary tract infection (UTI), pneumonia, or severe dehydration.

2: Reduced Mobility

Is your loved one struggling to walk or climb stairs? Perhaps they are holding onto the furniture whilst they move around the home? Whilst reduced mobility as you age is common, it can also signal an underlying condition that is causing loss of muscle strength or balance, which could lead to a fall at home or out.

Pictured Above: Red Button Telecare ‘Out & About’ Watch

3: Change in Eating

If you notice your loved one has lost weight, has a reduced appetite or is skipping meals or choosing convenient alternatives such as toast or ready meals, this could indicate a sign of depression, cognitive decline, such as difficulty with cooking, or a physical issue such as difficulty swallowing. Malnutrition can lead to other health issues.

4: Increased Social Withdrawal

Are your loved ones staying indoors more? Skipping a meeting with friends or stopping a much-loved hobby could indicate depression, tiredness, or a cognitive decline. This could be another key sign of health deterioration.

5: Neglect and Lack Of Interest

If your loved one has started to neglect their personal hygiene, such as wearing the same clothes, not brushing their teeth, and generally showing a lack of interest, this could mean a loss of physical ability, or perhaps they are forgetting.

If you notice any of the above signs, it is essential that you consult your GP immediately and get the appropriate care. These signs often point to an underlying medical issue, such as an infection or an emerging chronic condition, which requires a professional diagnosis and treatment plan.

Once medical professionals have established a clear path forward and treatment is underway, that is the perfect time to introduce telecare/TECS.

Telecare solutions provide a crucial safety net, ensuring your loved one can maintain their independence and confidence while they navigate any new challenges or recovery periods associated with their changing health.

At Red Button Telecare, we have two personal alarm products available depending on your needs:

Our ‘At Home Personal Alarm’ is perfect for use at home and in the garden while the ‘Out & About’ Watch is great for those who like to get out of the house often to visit friends, walk the dog or do the food shopping.

Both of these solutions offer a range of key features. Find out which one is best suited to you and your lifestyle.

Conclusion

The decline in an elderly loved one’s health is a natural part of life, but it doesn’t have to be a source of constant stress and anxiety. The data shows that the majority of us worry about our ability to support our parents, but by being mindful of the five key signs we’ve discussed, you can empower yourself to be proactive.

Remember, early intervention is key. A timely visit to the GP, followed by the seamless integration of TECS/telecare solutions, is the best way to safeguard your loved one’s well-being.

Start the conversation today, read the signs, and help your family transition into this next chapter with confidence and peace of mind.

E: hello@redbuttontelecare.co.uk

T: 0800-0086277

W: redbuttontelecare.co.uk