()The holiday season can be hectic and stressful for many. However, it is a great time to connect with loved ones and family. COVID-19 has made holiday plans more flexible this year. Many families are hosting virtual celebrations and small gatherings that have increased safety.

No matter how you celebrate the holidays, it is a great time to check on the health and well being of your loved ones. Virtual platforms make it possible to keep in touch with loved ones even though we may not be able to see them over the holidays.

Although it is not new that people won’t be able to get together to celebrate holidays or major milestones in their lives, the effects of loneliness and isolation are still very real for the elderly. Many are experiencing the negative effects of isolation and loneliness on their mental and physical health as social disconnection continues to be necessary to slow down the spread COVID-19. According to the study, more than half (56%) of older adults felt isolated earlier this year, compared with 27 percent in 2018. the University of Michigan National Poll on Healthy Aging.

“The rise in feelings of loneliness and isolation in older adults over the last several months is alarming,” says Lakelyn Hogan, Ph.D., gerontologist and caregiver advocate for Home Instead®. “While home remains the safest place for seniors this holiday season, it’ll be more important than ever to stay connected with your loved ones and pay close attention to any changes to their personality or behavior.”

These signs could be indicators that your loved one is experiencing the effects of a crisis, whether they are spending the holidays online or having a distant celebration.

  • Communication problems. Do they have a lost interest in socializing? Are they prone to repeating themselves or struggling to find the right words? Are they able to recite what they have just said?
  • Variable moods Are you noticing any changes in their attitudes? Are they easily flustered? Do they seem sad? Are they leaving voicemails and sending text messages that seem unusual?
  • Changes in Appearance Does their clothing look unkempt or rumpled? Are their hair untidy? Is their weight changing?
  • Difficulty in Concentrating. Are they disengaged? Do they seem disengaged or restless? Do they seem to have difficulty hearing or ask for repeat details?
  • Memory loss. Are they having trouble remembering names of relatives and friends? Do they seem to have forgotten about recent events? Do they look confused or overwhelmed

Recognizing these signs can be hard for family members as well as older adults. However, accepting the possibility that your loved one might need additional assistance early on will increase their chances of living comfortably and safely in their home for many years to come.

Contact your local Home Instead office for more information or to find out more about long-term or temporary care options. www.homeinstead.com.