The aroma of a roasting turkey, the warmth of family gathering together, the familiar comfort of being home—Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and connection. For many Edmonton families, it’s a precious opportunity to spend quality time with aging parents and loved ones, sharing stories and making new memories.
Beyond the wonderful food and conversation, this extended visit is also one of the most important moments you’ll have all year. It’s a rare chance to see, in person, how your parents are truly doing.
While weekly phone calls are vital, they often don’t reveal the full picture. Seniors are masters of the brave face, frequently saying "everything is fine" when they might be struggling with daily tasks. This Thanksgiving, as you gather with love, consider it an opportunity to gently observe. Not with a critical eye, but with a caring heart.
Here are five subtle areas to pay attention to during your visit.
1. A Close Look at the Home Environment
Your parents’ home has always been their sanctuary, but small changes can signal larger issues.
- What to look for: Are there piles of unopened mail on the counter? Is the home less tidy than usual, or are there signs of neglected maintenance, like burnt-out lightbulbs or dusty surfaces? Is the yard more unkempt than you remember?
- What it could mean: These changes may indicate that tasks are becoming physically difficult, overwhelming, or are simply being forgotten.
2. Clues from the Kitchen
The kitchen is often the heart of the home and can tell you a great deal about a person's well-being.
- What to look for: Open the fridge. Is it well-stocked with fresh food, or is it mostly empty or filled with expired items? Have you noticed a significant change in your parent's weight, either loss or gain? Do they seem less interested in cooking their favourite holiday dishes?
- What it could mean: Difficulty with grocery shopping, a lack of energy to cook, or a diminished appetite can all point to underlying health issues or a need for nutritional support.
3. Changes in Mobility and Physical Condition
Pay attention to how your parents move around the space they know so well.
- What to look for: Do they use furniture to steady themselves as they walk? Is it a struggle for them to get up from a comfortable chair? Have you noticed any new, unexplained bruises that could indicate a fall?
- What it could mean: These are often the first signs of declining strength and balance, which significantly increases the risk of a fall.
4. Shifts in Mood and Mental Acuity
The emotional and cognitive health of your parents is just as important as their physical health.
- What to look for: Does your parent seem less engaged in their favourite hobbies or family conversations? Do they seem more withdrawn, lonely, or easily agitated? Are they repeating stories more often or seem confused about their medications?
- What it could mean: Social isolation is a major risk for seniors, and these changes can be signs of loneliness, depression, or the early stages of cognitive decline.
5. Differences in Personal Care
A change in personal grooming habits can be a sensitive but significant indicator.
- What to look for: If your parent was always meticulous about their appearance, are you noticing neglected hygiene, unkempt hair, or that they’re wearing the same clothes on multiple days?
- What it could mean: The physical act of bathing, dressing, and grooming can become difficult and exhausting. It can also be a sign of depression or forgetfulness.
You've Noticed Some Changes. Now What?
Seeing these signs can be worrying, but it’s an opportunity to provide support. The next step is a gentle, supportive conversation.
- Choose a calm moment, perhaps the day after the main celebration.
- Frame it with love, not accusation. Instead of "You're not keeping the house clean," try "I've noticed you have so much to manage here. I was thinking about how we can make things easier for you."
- Focus on their goals. Ask, "Mom, what is most important to you for living here happily and safely?"
The goal isn't to take away their independence—it's to enhance it. That’s where home care can be a perfect solution. Services like companion care can combat loneliness, a caregiver can assist with meal preparation and light housekeeping, and personal care support can help with difficult daily routines.
Enjoy this precious family time this Thanksgiving. Cherish the moments and observe with love. And if your observations leave you with questions or concerns, know that you are not alone.
Compassion Network Home Care is here to have a confidential, no-obligation chat about how our home care services in Edmonton can help your parents thrive in the home they love. Contact us today to learn more.
