Caring for ageing parents is one of the most important – and often challenging – responsibilities adult children face. Many families wait until there is a crisis before seeking professional support, but recognising the early signs can make all the difference. Home care services allow older Australians to continue living safely and independently in their own homes, while also providing peace of mind for families.

If you’ve noticed changes in your parent’s behaviour, habits or health, it may be time to start the conversation.
Here are 10 subtle signs your parent may need home care support.

1. Forgetfulness Is Becoming More Frequent

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Everyone forgets things from time to time, but if your parent is missing appointments, forgetting to take medication, or leaving bills unpaid, it could be more than just being absent-minded. Memory lapses may indicate early cognitive decline or simply that day-to-day life is becoming overwhelming. Home care can help by providing reminders, organising schedules and ensuring important tasks are not overlooked.

2. Their Home Is Not As Tidy As It Used To Be

If you notice dishes piling up, laundry left undone, or expired food in the fridge, it may signal that keeping up with household chores has become difficult. Declining mobility, low energy levels, or health issues can make routine tasks harder to manage. A home care worker can step in to help with cleaning, meal preparation and other household duties, allowing your parent to live in a comfortable and safe environment.

3. Changes in Personal Hygiene

A once well-groomed parent who starts neglecting bathing, changing clothes or attending to personal hygiene may be struggling physically or emotionally. Sometimes this is due to fear of slipping in the shower or simply because getting dressed has become exhausting. Discreet assistance with personal care can restore dignity and confidence.

4. Withdrawal from Social Activities

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If your parent was once social but has recently become withdrawn, avoided outings, or declined invitations, it could be a sign of loneliness, mobility challenges or depression. Social isolation is a serious risk factor for older adults. Home care services can provide companionship, support with transport, and encouragement to stay connected with friends, community and hobbies.

5. Unexplained Bruises or Falls

Falls are one of the biggest risks for seniors and often go unreported out of embarrassment. If you notice unexplained bruises or your parent seems unsteady on their feet, this is a warning sign that extra support is needed. Home care workers can assist with mobility, help create a safer environment, and reduce the risk of accidents.

6. Weight Loss or Poor Nutrition

Has your parent lost weight, skipped meals, or relied heavily on takeaway and snack foods? Preparing balanced meals can become too much effort for some older adults, especially if shopping and cooking are physically challenging. Home care can include grocery shopping, meal preparation, or simply ensuring your parent eats regularly and nutritiously.

7. Medication Management Is a Struggle

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Many older Australians take several different medications each day, and it’s easy to forget a dose or accidentally take the wrong one. If you’ve noticed unopened packets, duplicate prescriptions, or your parent feeling unsure about what to take, it may be time for extra support. While support workers generally can’t administer medication, they can provide gentle reminders and encourage safe systems such as Webster-paks or pill organisers prepared by the pharmacy. These simple tools help make managing medication safer and less stressful for both your parent and your family.

8. Mood or Behavioural Changes

A normally cheerful parent who becomes irritable, anxious, or unusually quiet may be struggling with more than just ageing. Changes in mood can point to depression, loneliness, or frustration at losing independence. Regular visits from a trusted home care worker can provide not just practical help, but also emotional support and companionship.

9. Difficulty Getting Around

Mobility issues often appear gradually. Your parent may start avoiding stairs, complaining of joint pain, or limiting outings because walking feels unsafe. If they are spending more time in bed or sitting in one room, it may be time to arrange mobility support, assistance with errands, or safe transport.

10. You’re Feeling Overwhelmed as a Carer

Sometimes the sign that your parent needs home care comes from you. If you’re struggling to balance your own family, work and caring responsibilities, professional help can ease the load. Accepting support doesn’t mean you’re failing your parent – it ensures they receive consistent, high-quality care while you maintain your wellbeing.

Why Early Support Matters

Waiting until there is a health crisis or hospital admission often leads to rushed decisions and added stress. By recognising these subtle signs early, you can explore options and involve your parent in the conversation, giving them more control over their care.

Home care services can be tailored to each individual, from just a few hours a week of support with shopping or cleaning, to more comprehensive daily care. The right level of assistance helps seniors maintain their independence while staying safe at home.

How Bannister In Home Care Can Help

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At Bannister In Home Care, we support older Australians to continue living comfortably in their own homes. Our friendly and professional team provides personalised services, including:

Help with daily tasks such as cooking, cleaning and shopping
Personal care such as showering and dressing
Transport to medical appointments and social outings
Companionship and social connection

We specialise in supporting clients through Home Care Packages and the upcoming Support at Home Program, making the process simple and stress-free.

Taking the First Step

If you’ve noticed one or more of these signs in your parent, it may be time to start a gentle conversation about getting some extra help. Many families find that even a small amount of support makes a huge difference in quality of life.

At Bannister In Home Care, we’re here to guide you through the options, answer your questions, and provide compassionate care tailored to your parent’s needs.

📞 Contact us today to learn more about how we can support your loved one to age well at home.

10 Subtle Signs Your Parent May Need Home Care