Recognizing the Signs Your Parent Needs More Help After the Holidays

For many families, the holidays are the first time in months — or even years — that everyone is together under one roof.

It’s often during this time that adult children notice changes they can’t ignore anymore.

Maybe your parent:

• Struggled getting in and out of the shower

• Needed help dressing or managing medications

• Was unsteady on their feet

• Appeared forgetful or confused

• Let household tasks pile up

• Seemed exhausted by daily routines

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone — and noticing these changes is an important first step.

Once these concerns come up, families often feel:

• Guilty for not noticing sooner

• Unsure if it’s “too early” to get help

• Overwhelmed by options

• Afraid of making the wrong decision

• Unsure how to pay for care

These feelings are normal — and there are ways to explore support without rushing into major decisions.

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What Types of Help Might Be Available at Home?

Depending on your parent’s needs, support at home may include:

• Personal care assistance

• Help with bathing, dressing, or mobility

• Medication reminders

• Meal preparation

• Light housekeeping

• Safety monitoring

Many families are surprised to learn that home care may be available even when a parent does not want to leave their home.

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How Medicaid and Home Care Fit In

When a parent needs help with ADLs, Medicaid may help cover home care services — depending on eligibility.

The process often involves:

• Determining the level of care needed

• Completing assessments

• Coordinating with Managed Long Term Care (MLTC) plans when applicable

• Submitting applications and documentation

• Following up to ensure services are approved and maintained

This process can feel complex, especially when families are already emotionally overwhelmed.

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How Senior Advisor Solutions Supports Families at This Stage

Senior Advisor Solutions works with families at the moment they begin noticing changes, not just during a crisis.

We help families:

• Understand what they’re seeing

• Learn what options may be available

• Navigate assessments and applications

• Coordinate Medicaid and home care services

• Advocate for appropriate support at home

Our role is to guide families through the process with clarity and compassion — at a pace that feels manageable.

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Taking the First Step Forward

Noticing that your parent needs help with daily activities can be emotional and unsettling. It doesn’t mean you need to make immediate decisions — but it does mean it may be time to learn what support options exist.