Recognising subtle signs of change in elderly loved ones

Amidst the many conversations and considerations that come with caring for an elderly loved one, there often lingers an unspoken but critical concern: the possibility that they may no longer be as mentally capable as they appear.

Cognitive decline can manifest in a myriad of different ways—some subtle and easy to overlook, others more apparent yet actively hidden. Early signs might include small lapses in memory, confusion over everyday tasks, or changes in judgment and decision-making. Often, these symptoms emerge gradually and can go unnoticed for extended periods, especially if your loved one is doing their best to maintain appearances.

Addressing these concerns is never easy.   Think of the difficulty you may have had convincing a loved one to consider the possibility that they may require glasses or hearing aids. Now, imagine how much more sensitive it becomes when the issue is related to mental capacity.

That said, awareness is crucial. Most of us have heard at least one story about an elderly person who discovered online shopping, or who began forgetting to pay their utility bills……but none of the family knew.

At the same time, there’s a fine line between being attentive and becoming intrusive. No one wants to feel spied on, especially not by those they trust most.

As with most things, the foundation is built on regular communication and trust. Frequent visits, casual conversations, and shared routines not only strengthen relationships, but they also create a baseline of normalcy—making it easier to notice if something begins to shift.

Just stay present, observant and compassionate.