10 signs a person is unwell

Published on 17 November 2021

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You may notice changes in a person’s health while caring for them or in those people who are close to you. It’s vital to recognise any deterioration in health early to reduce the likelihood of unnecessary complications or further preventable deterioration.

If you identify any signs of deteriorating health in someone you are caring for, it is important you report these changes and discuss your concerns with their GP and Aged Care Adviser as soon as possible.

10 signs of deteriorating health

  1. Increasingly restless, agitated, anxious, confused or drowsy. 
  2. Flushed, sweating, chills, high or low temperature, clammy, dizzy or chest pain.
  3. Less mobile than usual, unsteady or spending more time in bed.
  4. Change in skin colour – rash, mottling of skin or blue tinge to lips. 
  5. Off their food, drinking less or losing weight, swollen legs or feet. 
  6. Feeling sick, diarrhoea or vomiting, changes in bowel habits, urine changes or smell.
  7. Breathing changes, short of breath, flared nostrils, cough, noisy breathing.
  8. Changes in communication or talking less.
  9. New pain or increased pain.
  10. Person doesn't seem themselves or seems different. 

Who is most at risk?

  • People with an existing illness or a chronic illness.
  • People with intellectual impairments or cognitive decline.
  • People with poor mobility, advanced age or poor nutrition.

If you are a client of AccessCare you can also report any changes to your Aged Care Adviser if you are on a Home Care Package or if you are receiving Commonwealth Home Support Programme services call our Home Support team on 1300 819 200.

If your situation is an emergency please call 000 immediately.

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