Holiday Visits:

A Family Guide to Observing Loved Ones’ Health

Spending the holidays together is a wonderful opportunity to reconnect and sometimes, it can reveal subtle changes in a loved one’s memory, mood, or ability to manage daily life. This guide is designed to help families notice signs that may indicate cognitive changes, early dementia, or functional difficulties affecting daily living.

1. Memory and Cognitive Changes

Watch for:

• Repeating questions or stories frequently

• Forgetting names of close family members or familiar places

• Difficulty following conversations or instructions

• Confusion about dates, time, or location

2. Daily Living Skills

Notice if your loved one is having trouble with:

• Managing medications or paying bills

• Preparing meals or eating properly

• Personal hygiene or dressing appropriately

• Household organization (e.g., clutter, unopened mail)

3. Emotional and Behavioral Shifts

Be aware of:

• Withdrawal from family or social activities

• Uncharacteristic mood swings or irritability

• Anxiety or frustration with routine tasks

• Unusual behaviors or loss of interest in hobbies

4. Physical or Safety Concerns

Keep an eye on:

• Recent falls, bruises, or accidents

• Difficulty walking, poor coordination, or slower reaction times

• Trouble navigating familiar spaces

5. What to Do If You Notice Changes

Observing one or more of these signs doesn’t necessarily mean dementia, but it’s a cue to take action:

• Encourage a routine check-up with a physician

• Offer support with daily tasks or medication management

• Discuss options for in-home support or senior living communities

• Reach out to resources such as the Alzheimer’s Association for guidance (alz.org)

Tip for Families

Approach conversations with empathy and curiosity, not judgment. These observations are about supporting independence and safety, not labeling or diagnosing.