1. Difficulty with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):

• Bathing and Grooming: Observe if your loved one struggles to get in and out of the shower or bath, wash their hair, brush their teeth, or shave.
• Dressing: Are they having difficulty putting on or taking off clothes, fastening buttons or zips, or tying shoelaces?
• Eating: Do they have trouble preparing meals, cutting food, or feeding themselves?
• Toileting: Are they experiencing incontinence or difficulty getting to and from the bathroom?
• Mobility: Watch for signs of unsteadiness, frequent falls, or difficulty walking, standing up, or transferring from a chair to a bed.

2. Changes in Physical Health

• Unexplained Weight Loss or Gain: Significant changes in weight without an apparent reason can indicate underlying health issues or difficulty with meal preparation and nutrition.
• Increased Fatigue or Weakness: Observe if your loved one is frequently tired, lacks energy, or struggles to complete tasks they once found easy.
• Changes in Vision or Hearing: Deteriorating eyesight or hearing can impact daily life, increasing the risk of accidents and social isolation.
• Chronic Pain: Unmanaged pain can significantly affect your loved one's quality of life and mobility.
• Worsening of Existing Conditions: If your loved one has a chronic illness, monitor for any decline in their condition or difficulty managing symptoms.

3. Changes in Cognitive Function

• Memory Loss: Notice if your loved one is forgetting appointments, conversations, or recent events.
• Confusion or Disorientation: Do they seem confused about their surroundings, the time of day, or their identity?
• Difficulty with Decision-Making: Are they struggling to make simple choices or manage their finances?
• Changes in Behaviour or Personality: Observe for uncharacteristic mood swings, withdrawal from social activities, or signs of agitation or anxiety.

4. Neglecting Personal Care or Household Chores

• Poor Hygiene: Pay attention to unkempt hair, body odour, or soiled clothing.
• Untidy Home: A cluttered or dirty living environment can indicate difficulty with household chores or self-care.
• Spoiled Food: Check the refrigerator for expired or mouldy food, which might suggest difficulty with meal planning or grocery shopping.

5. Social Isolation and Loneliness

• Withdrawal from Activities: If your loved one is no longer participating in hobbies or social events they once enjoyed, it could signify feelings of loneliness or depression.
  Limited Social Interaction: Observe if they have fewer visitors or phone calls than usual.
  Expressions of Sadness or Loneliness: Listen for direct statements or subtle cues that suggest they are feeling isolated or disconnected.
• 6. Medication Management Challenges
• Missed Doses: Monitor if your loved one is forgetting to take their medications or taking them at the wrong times.
  Difficulty with Medication Organisation: Notice if pill boxes are disorganised or if multiple medications are mixed up.
  Side Effects or Adverse Reactions: Be aware of any unusual symptoms or changes in behaviour that could be related to medication interactions.

7. Safety Concerns

• Falls and Accidents: Frequent falls, burns, or other accidents can indicate a need for increased supervision and support.
• Wandering or Getting Lost: If your loved one has a tendency to wander or get lost, it could pose a serious safety risk.
• Unsafe Driving: Difficulty with vision, reaction time, or cognitive function can make driving unsafe for both your loved one and others on the road.

8. Recent Hospital Discharge or Change in Health Status

• Post-Hospital Recovery: Recovering from surgery, illness, or injury can be challenging, and home care can provide essential support during this transition.
• New Diagnosis: If your loved one has recently been diagnosed with a chronic illness or disability, home care can help them adjust to their new reality and manage their condition effectively.