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Noticing Changes in a Loved One’s Health Over the Holidays

Spending time with family over the holiday season is full of joy, laughter, and great food. But sometimes, longer visits can also reveal subtle changes in a loved one’s health or ability to care for themselves. They might be things that aren’t obvious during brief phone calls or short visits.

These observations can be worrying, but they’re also valuable, and it’s good if you notice them early. They give you valuable insight into any potential care needs your loved one might have, changes in their mobility, cognition, or daily their routines, and can help you get them the right support before small issues become even bigger problems.

Why extended visits can show changes

Extended time together gives you the time to see your loved one in their daily environment. You can pay more attention to how they move, how they manage certain tasks such as cooking or bathing, or if they appear more tired or less steady than before.

Changes could include:

Mobility and balance shifts – slower walking, more cautious steps, or difficulty with stairs
Cognitive changes – forgetfulness, confusion, or trouble following familiar routines
Daily living challenges – difficulty managing medication, cleaning, cooking, personal care
Energy or mood changes – fatigue, withdrawal, or irritability

Even subtle changes can make you aware that extra support or a medical review may be needed.

How to bring the subject up thoughtfully

Seeing any changes doesn’t mean you should jump straight to conclusions, and certainly not make your loved one feel judged. This is a situation that needs extreme care. Here are some of our tips on where to begin:

Document the changes you see
Keep notes on specific things that you’ve noticed. This might include times when mobility is slower, missed medications, or any signs of them being confused. Having some clear examples will help doctors, carers, or support services better understand what’s happening.
Start gentle conversations
Share your concerns in a relaxed way, framed around the fact that you are concerned for them care and their wellbeing. Questions such as “I’ve noticed you seem more tired lately—how are you feeling?” can open these delicate conversations without creating defensiveness.
Consider a care needs assessment
Local authorities can provide you with assessments to determine if any additional support is required. This could include mobility aids, home care visits, or NHS Continuing Healthcare if the eligibility criteria is met.
Support tiny changes at home
Even simple changes such as better lighting, non-slip bath mats, handrails, or even a meal delivery service can help. Anything to make daily life safer and easier.

How Eximius Support can help

By noticing changes and researching all the support options available, you have options to help your loved one maintain their independence in a safe way. At Eximius Support, we work with families and provide guidance on: