Recognizing When a Loved One May Need Home Care During the Holiday Season
The holidays are often a time for family gatherings, shared meals, and meaningful moments together. For many families, it’s also one of the few times each year when everyone is under the same roof. While these visits are joyful, they can also reveal subtle — or not-so-subtle — changes in a loved one’s health or daily functioning that may otherwise go unnoticed.
If you’re visiting an aging parent, grandparent, or adult loved one this holiday season, it’s important to know what signs to look for that may indicate additional support is needed. Recognizing these changes early can help ensure their safety, comfort, and independence well beyond the holidays.
Changes You May Notice During Holiday Visits
Changes in personal hygiene or appearance
If your loved one appears unkempt, is wearing dirty or inappropriate clothing for the weather, or seems to have neglected grooming habits, this may be a sign they are struggling with daily self-care tasks like bathing, dressing, or laundry. With support from Kore Cares, families can rely on in-home care that provides respectful person assistance while preserving dignity and independence.
Difficulty moving around safely
With busier homes and altered routines during the holidays, mobility challenges may become more noticeable. Trouble getting up from chairs, unsteady walking, holding onto furniture for balance, or unexplained bruises can all be signs that additional support is needed to reduce fall risk and improve safety at home.
Memory lapses or confusion
While occasional forgetfulness can be normal, repeated confusion may be cause for concern. Missing medications, difficulty following conversations, or confusion about dates and routines can indicate a need for extra support. Kore Cares provides home care support that includes medication reminders, daily structure, and gentle supervision.
Changes in the home environment
During a visit, take note of the living space. Unopened mail, unpaid bills, spoiled food, or cluttered rooms may suggest your loved one is having difficulty managing household tasks. Kore Cares services can assist with light housekeeping, organization, and meal preparation.
Noticeable weight loss or poor nutrition
Holiday meals often highlight changes in eating habits. Weight loss, skipped meals, or reliance on packaged or convenience foods may signal challenges with grocery shopping or cooking. Caregivers can support healthy nutrition through meal planning, preparation, grocery shopping, and encouragement.
Increased isolation or mood changes
The holidays can intensify feelings of loneliness, especially for those who live alone. Withdrawal from activities, changes in mood, or lack of interest in things once enjoyed may be signs your loved one could benefit from companionship and social engagement.
Starting the Conversation
Recognizing changes is one thing — talking about them is another. Approach the conversation with empathy and understanding. Focus on safety, comfort, and maintaining independence rather than limitations. Many people are more receptive to home care when they understand it’s meant to support their lifestyle, not take it away.
How Home Care Can Help Beyond the Holidays
Home care isn’t just a seasonal solution. Services can be customized to meet current needs and adjusted as those needs change. Whether support is needed for a few hours a week or on a more regular basis, in-home care can provide peace of mind for both individuals and their families.
At Kore Cares, we provide personalized in-home services for individuals 18 and older, helping them remain safe, supported, and independent in the place they call home.
A Holiday Gift That Lasts All Year
One of the most meaningful gifts you can give this holiday season is peace of mind. If you’ve noticed changes during your visit, exploring home care options now can make a lasting difference long after the holidays end. Kore Cares is here to help every step of the way.
For more information on the services Kore Cares offers, please visit our service page.
To set up a consultation with your local agency, please call 1-888-546-0704.