Look for changes in behaviour that show neglect or difficulty completing basic tasks. Below are some warning signs, which may suggest that an elder needs professional care:

• Problems completing tasks involved in day-to-day living such as eating, walking, dressing, cooking or taking medications as directed by a doctor.
• Infrequent bathing, dirty clothes, poor dental care.
• Decline in mental function, such as frequent forgetfulness, getting lost while driving/walking, inability to communicate clearly, leaving the stove turned on, unusual behaviour.
• Severe weight loss, fatigue, muscle weakness, bed wetting, sleeping too much or too little.