Understanding the causes and recognizing the signs of loss of autonomy in seniors

Causes of loss of autonomy

Loss of autonomy can occur for different reasons, including the natural aging of the body, illness, hospitalization, or accident.

For example, mobility issues due to the use of medical devices or repeated falls can make moving around more difficult and less frequent. After falling once, fear of falling again can make a person less inclined to move around than before.

Emotions like sadness, anxiety, or worry can also result in inactivity and long periods of isolation.

Here are a few risk factors:

• Accidents and repeated falls
• Chronic illness (heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, etc.)
• Long-term hospitalization or bed rest
• Use of medical devices (catheter, oxygen cylinder, wheelchair, etc.)
• Side effects of medication
• Mental health issues (depression, anxiety, etc.)
• Neurocognitive disorders
• Social isolation
• Lack of physical activity

The difference between normal aging and dementia (Société Alzheimer du Canada)

Recognizing the signs

To recognize the signs of loss of autonomy in a senior, their daily habits should be observed, along with their state of health and mobility. Any significant change in behaviour should be noted.

If you identify unusual movements or actions, you can obtain the support needed or take steps to maintain your autonomy or the autonomy of the person close to you for as long as possible.

Warning signs

Health

• Loss of vision or hearing
• Significant weight loss
• Frequent falls

Behaviour

• Repetition of sentences or actions
• Confusion
• Trouble focusing
• Moodiness
• Irritability
• Significant fatigue
• Significant and recurrent forgetfulness such as leaving the stove on, forgetting to eat, or getting lost in familiar places
• Isolation and loss of interest in social activities
• Loss of appetite or loss of interest in food

Abilities

• Trouble balancing or walking without assistance
• Inability to dress, wash, get up, or lie down alone
• Trouble preparing meals, keeping the home tidy, and using the phone
• Reduced ability to drive

Appearance

• Neglected appearance (e.g., improperly buttoned, dirty, damaged, or mismatched clothing)
• Smell of urine

At home

• Poorly kept home
• Cluttered rooms
• Unpleasant smell
• Unpaid rent

Loss of independence: Impacts and prevention (Santé Montérégie Portal)

Caring for a senior with a neurocognitive disorder

Avoir peur de tomber - French only (AvantÂge)