How to get help when you notice an elderly loved one needs day-to-day support

The festive season is a time for togetherness, but it can also reveal challenges that our elderly loved ones might be facing in their daily lives. Perhaps you notice they’re struggling with memory, finding routine tasks more difficult, or exhibiting changes in mood or behaviour. Recognising the signs and knowing where to seek help is essential to ensure their safety and your peace of mind. Here are some services and resources available to support you and your loved one over the holiday season.

1. Dementia Support: Dementia Australia

If you’re concerned about dementia, Dementia Australia can help, even during the holidays. Their National Dementia Helpline operates 24/7, including Christmas Day, to assist with dementia-related concerns.

Signs of dementia may include:

• Frequent memory loss, such as forgetting names or familiar routines.
• Difficulty completing familiar tasks like cooking.
• Sudden mood swings or changes in personality.

How they can help:

• Advice on supporting a loved one with dementia.
• Tips for making holiday gatherings more enjoyable for those living with dementia.
• Tools like the free BrainTrack app to monitor cognitive changes over time.

Contact: National Dementia Helpline: 1800 100 500

Visit Dementia Australia

2. Financial and Aged Care Planning: Fiducian Group Limited

Planning for aged care can feel overwhelming, especially during an emotional time like the holidays. Dianne Chalk and her team at the Fiducian Group provides comprehensive financial advice and assistance in planning for aged care costs and services.

Services include:

• Guidance on aged care funding and affordability.
• Options for residential care and what to do with family assets.
• Support for navigating the aged care system.

Contact: Fiducian Aged Care Financial Planning: 1800 843 847

Visit Fiducian Website

3. Local Meals and Assistance: Meals on Wheels NSW

Ensuring your loved one has access to nutritious meals is essential. Meals on Wheels NSW delivers affordable, healthy meals directly to the homes of elderly individuals, ensuring they stay nourished and connected.

Contact: Meals on Wheels NSW: (02) 8219 4200

Visit Meals on Wheels NSW

4. Support for Depression: Black Dog Institute

Depression can often go unnoticed in older adults, especially during the festive season. If your loved one seems withdrawn, sad, or overwhelmed for more than two weeks, it’s crucial to seek help.

Resources include:

• Fact sheets and advice on identifying and managing depression in older people.
• Recommendations for seeking professional support.

Visit Black Dog Institute

5. Aged Care Assessments: My Aged Care

If your loved one needs additional support, an Aged Care Assessment Team (ACAT) can help determine their eligibility for government-subsidised services, including in-home care or residential aged care.

How to arrange an assessment:

• Referrals can be made by anyone, including family members or GPs.
• Contact My Aged Care for guidance.

Contact My Aged Care: 1800 200 422

Visit My Aged Care

6. The Salvation Army: Elderly Support Services

While The Salvation Army primarily operates aged care services in Sydney, they also provide resources to families in need. Their Christmas Appeal highlights support for struggling families and individuals, ensuring no one is left behind during the festive season.

How they help:

• Assistance with housing and emergency support.
• Meals and resources for those in need.

Contact: Salvos: 13 SALVOS (13 72 58)

Visit Salvation Army

7. Additional Resources

• Local Community Groups and Councils: Many local councils offer support services for the elderly, including transportation, social activities, and home assistance.
• Carer Gateway: A national service providing practical advice and support for carers. Visit their website here.

What to Watch for These Holidays

If you’re concerned about an elderly loved one, here are a few things to monitor:

• Difficulty keeping up with daily tasks (e.g., cooking, cleaning, managing medications).
• Signs of depression or withdrawal.
• Increased forgetfulness or confusion.
• Changes in physical health or mobility.

The Christmas and New Year season is an opportunity to check in on the well-being of your elderly loved ones. If you notice they’re struggling, don’t wait. Reach out to one of the many services available to ensure they receive the care and support they need to enjoy a safe and happy festive season.

If you need help with selling your loved ones home, reach out to Joanne Danckewardt on 0426 264 771 or send a message.