Holiday Check-In: Spotting Red Flags & Supporting Aging Loved Ones

As families gather for food, fellowship, and football, it’s also a perfect time to quietly check in on how your older loved ones are really doing. Early awareness allows families to catch potential issues before they become bigger problems — improving safety, preserving independence, and easing worry for everyone involved.

🚩 Red Flags to Notice During the Holidays

Keep your eyes open for small shifts that could mean bigger changes ahead:

Sudden weight change – could signal illness, medication side effects, or nutrition concerns

Neglect cues – unkempt home, unopened mail, poor hygiene

Unexplained bruises/injuries – possible falls or safety issues

Disorientation – confusion about time, place, or people

Social withdrawal – loss of interest in gatherings or conversation

Communication changes – trouble following along, slurred or hesitant speech

Mobility struggles – “furniture walking,” balance issues, new cane use

💡 Remember: these observations are opportunities for support, not criticism.

🗣️ How to Start the Conversation

Once you’ve noticed something, the next step is a compassionate conversation.
Here’s how to make it meaningful:

Be a Good Listener: Give full attention. Listen with empathy and patience.

Ask Open-Ended Questions: “How have you been feeling lately?” invites more sharing than “Are you okay?”

Start Light: Begin with hobbies or family updates before health talk.

Show Genuine Interest: Ask because you care — not to fix.

Respect Privacy: Let them set the limits of what they share.

Involve Others: A trusted family member can make it more relaxed.

Show Appreciation: Thank them for sharing and remind them how valued they are.

And please, keep the chat away from blaring TVs and noisy kitchens — those with hearing or vision challenges will appreciate it.

📝 Your Free Holiday Gathering Checklist

I’ve created a Holiday Family Gathering Checklist — a simple, judgment-free guide to help you watch for red flags and make sure your loved ones feel included and supported.

🏠 Hosting With Heart

Spending the holidays with older family members means more than carving the turkey. It’s about ensuring comfort, dignity, and belonging. After all, we’re not putting them at the “Old People’s Table” — what would the kids think?! 😲

 💬 Need Help Decoding What You See?

If you’re unsure what’s “normal aging” versus a red flag, I can help review what you noticed and outline next steps — from medication reviews to care coordination or provider referrals.

 ✨ Stay confident. Stay informed. Stay Taylormade.