Caregiver Checklist: Early Signs Your Loved One May Need More Support at Home
✅ Changes in Personal Hygiene
- Skipping baths or showers
- Wearing the same clothes for days
- Hair or nails are in need of attention
✅ Unexplained Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition
- Empty fridge or expired food
- Skipping meals
- Noticeable weight loss or gain
✅ Increased Forgetfulness or Confusion
- Missed appointments or unpaid bills
- Repeating questions or stories
- Trouble following simple instructions
✅ Changes in Mobility or Balance
- Moving slower than usual
- Holding onto walls or furniture
- Avoiding certain rooms or stairs
✅ Neglected Household Tasks
- Clutter piling up
- Dirty dishes or laundry left for days
- Unopened mail or unpaid utilities
✅ Withdrawal from Social Activities
- No longer seeing friends or family
- Avoiding community events
- Showing signs of sadness or isolation
✅ Medication Mismanagement
- Missed or double doses
- Confusion over which pills to take
- Running out of prescriptions
If you check off several of these signs:
It’s time to consider adding support — whether that’s part-time caregiving, home health services, technology for daily check-ins, or connecting with community programs.
💡 Tip: Address changes early to protect safety and independence.
