Aging affects the whole body which can be very noticeable and quite obscure at times. The loss of physical and mental abilities, also known as functional decline, correlates to the effects of aging such as impaired vision, hearing problems, memory and brain issues, as well as weakness in bones. So how can you determine that a loved one is truly declining rather than enduring the natural state of old age? We’ve investigated this and found a few ways to detect the warning signs of a declining senior facing medical problems.
Changes in Activities of Daily Living (ADL)
Check for, extreme weight fluctuations as well as a decline in personal hygiene. Are they failing to keep up with daily routines like eating, bathing and brushing their teeth? If so, this can be an indicator of physical impairments or dementia. The lack of nutrition and personal care can stem from difficulty cooking, loss of taste or smell, social issues, or other serious underlying conditions. Take note of these warning signs as they can be indicators of decline.