Introduction
Realising that your ageing parents may need additional help can be an emotional and often overwhelming experience. It’s a moment that many families face — sometimes suddenly — and knowing how to respond can make all the difference. Whether it’s after a family holiday gathering or a routine visit, small but telling changes in your parents’ behaviour, health, or ability to manage daily activities may be a signal that it’s time to take action.
At Support Services Connect Australia (SSCA), we understand how difficult it can be to navigate the Australian aged care system alone. That’s why our free care finding service helps families in Melbourne and across Australia find suitable aged care providers tailored to their unique needs, preferences, and circumstances.
This guide will help you understand the key signs that your elderly parents may need help, what steps to take as a family, and how SSCA can support you with professional and compassionate advice.
Recognising the Early Signs of Change
When you haven’t seen your parents for a while, spending extended time with them often brings noticeable changes to light. These shifts — sometimes subtle, other times dramatic — can indicate that they may need support to continue living safely and independently.
Here are the most common signs to look out for:
- Forgetfulness: Repeatedly forgetting appointments, conversations, or where important items are placed.
- Repeated stories: Telling the same stories over and over, particularly if this behaviour is new or unusual.
- Confusion: Difficulty following conversations or instructions, or showing signs of disorientation.
- Non-recognition: Struggling to recognise close family members or friends.
- Unsteady gait: Experiencing frequent imbalance or falls, or difficulty walking unaided.
- Changes in eating habits: Reduced appetite, skipping meals, or noticeable weight loss.
- Missed appointments or unpaid bills: Difficulty keeping track of schedules or managing finances.
- Clutter or mess: A once tidy home becoming disorganised or unsafe.
- Neglected personal hygiene: Wearing soiled clothes, forgetting to bathe, or declining grooming habits.
Why these signs matter
These changes are not just about ageing; they may signal underlying health issues, early dementia, or mobility problems that require attention. Recognising these signs early allows you to seek appropriate help and maintain your loved one’s dignity and quality of life.
Starting the Conversation with Your Family
Noticing changes is just the first step. The next — and often most challenging — part is talking about it with your family and, most importantly, your parents.
Key steps to follow:
- Be compassionate: Approach the topic with kindness and respect, focusing on their well-being and independence.
- Include everyone: Make sure siblings and close relatives are part of the conversation to avoid misunderstandings.
- Be transparent: Share observations openly so that no family member feels excluded or burdened with extra responsibilities.
- Plan a family meeting: If possible, sit down together to discuss concerns, share ideas, and map out next steps.
At this stage, it’s helpful to begin exploring professional support options — including in-home assistance, community programs, or respite care — depending on the situation.
Organising Responsibilities
When support becomes necessary, dividing responsibilities among family members helps reduce stress and ensures that your parents’ needs are met effectively.
Key areas to cover:
Financial
- Keep bank accounts, investment details, and contact information for financial advisors up to date.
- Ensure one or more family members have access to necessary accounts in case of emergencies.
Medical
- Document your parents’ healthcare wishes and preferences.
- Keep an updated list of medications, doctors, and specialists.
- Attend appointments together if your parents need support managing complex medical instructions.
Social
- Encourage activities that keep your parents mentally and socially engaged.
- Schedule regular outings, visits from friends, or participation in community programs.
Legal and Administrative Planning
Legal preparation is critical in ensuring that your parents’ wishes are respected in every situation.
Essential steps include:
- Updating wills and ensuring executors are clearly appointed.
- Setting up an Enduring Power of Attorney (EPOA) and, if necessary, an Enduring Guardianship.
- Keeping all important legal and financial documents in a secure but accessible place.
By addressing these matters early, you help avoid confusion or conflict during more challenging times.
Supporting Daily Health and Well-being
Beyond financial and legal planning, your parents’ day-to-day well-being should remain a priority.
Physical health
- Regular exercise such as walking, stretching, or light strength training helps maintain mobility and balance.
- Balanced nutrition supports energy levels, immunity, and overall health.
Mental and emotional health
- Encourage hobbies, puzzles, or games to keep their minds active.
- Stay connected through regular social interaction with family and friends.
Safety at home
- Remove tripping hazards and ensure good lighting throughout the home.
- Consider installing grab rails or other assistive devices to improve safety.
When It’s Time to Seek Additional Help
Sometimes, despite the best family efforts, ageing parents may need more structured support. This could be due to declining mobility, progressive health conditions, or safety concerns.
Signs it’s time to seek professional support:
- They are unable to manage daily activities independently.
- They avoid leaving the home due to physical or cognitive limitations.
- They show increased anxiety, loneliness, or depression.
This is where SSCA’s free care finding service becomes invaluable.
Our experienced team will:
- Listen to your family’s unique situation.
- Analyse your parents’ care needs, preferences, and location.
- Match you with a reliable and suitable aged care provider in your area.
Our goal is to make the process less stressful and more efficient, so you can focus on what truly matters — supporting your loved ones through the changes of ageing.
Embracing Change for a Safer, Happier Future
Transitioning to receiving help — whether at home or in a residential aged care setting — can feel daunting. It may cause temporary stress or even resistance from your parents. However, these changes often lead to:
- Greater safety and independence
- Access to professional care and support
- Improved social interaction and reduced isolation
- Peace of mind for family members, knowing their loved ones are cared for
By approaching the process with empathy and preparation, families can ensure a smoother transition for everyone involved.
Conclusion
Caring for ageing parents is one of the most important and loving responsibilities we take on as families. By recognising the signs of change early, planning carefully, and seeking support when needed, you can create a safer, happier environment for your parents.
At SSCA, our free care finding service helps families in Melbourne and beyond find the right aged care providers — simplifying what can often feel like an overwhelming journey. With over 25 years of experience in the Australian aged care system, we are here to guide you every step of the way.