The holidays bring families together in ways that few other times of year can. Between shared meals, familiar routines, and long-overdue conversations, these moments often feel comforting and nostalgic. But for many adult children, holiday visits also bring something unexpected: a clearer view of how aging parents are really doing..

It’s not uncommon to notice small changes—an unopened stack of mail, a forgotten recipe, or a hesitation on the stairs. These moments can be easy to dismiss in the joy of the season, but they may be signs that your loved one is struggling more than they let on.

Understanding the Subtle Signs

As we age, changes in physical, cognitive, and emotional health can happen gradually. During holiday visits, you may notice:

  • A home that feels less tidy or maintained
  • A refrigerator with expired or missing food
  • Difficulty keeping up with conversations or traditions
  • Withdrawal from group activities or social interaction
  • Changes in hygiene or personal grooming
  • Unexplained bruises or balance issues

These signs don’t always mean a crisis—but they do suggest it may be time to start a conversation.

Compassionate Support Starts with Awareness

Recognizing that a loved one may need help is never easy. It often comes with guilt, uncertainty, and a flood of questions. At Providence Living at Pembroke Pines, we understand how emotional this process can be—and we’re here to help families navigate it with clarity and compassion.

Our Assisted Living and Memory Care community provides personalized support that meets residents where they are. From help with daily tasks to specialized memory programming, we focus on creating environments where seniors feel safe, respected, and engaged.

A Gentle Next Step

You don’t have to make decisions overnight. But if this holiday season raised concerns, it may be time to explore what support could look like. Touring a community, speaking with a care advisor, or simply learning more about senior living options can offer peace of mind—and help you plan for what’s next.

Want a helpful tool to guide your observations

Download our Holiday Visit Assessment Checklist to learn what signs to look for and how to take the next steps with confident.

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Have questions or want to tour of our community? Call Farrah Farivar 954-363-0574 to schedule a visit or learn more.

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