Holiday Visits to Boca Raton Can Reveal Important Clues About Aging Parents

For many families, the holidays mean flights booked, warm weather, and reunions in Boca Raton or elsewhere in South Florida. Adult children who live out of state often cherish these visits as rare, uninterrupted time with parents who have chosen Florida for retirement.

As an SRES (Senior Real Estate Specialist) I see adult children traveling here to visit and it reveals some major red flags with mom and dad.

Experts say these visits can also quietly reveal changes that are easy to miss from afar.

According to the National Institute on Aging, in-person visits provide valuable insight into how older adults are truly managing day to day, beyond what phone calls or quick check-ins can show.

Why the Holidays Are a Natural Check-In Moment

Holiday visits compress time. In just a few days, adult children see routines, habits, and home environments all at once.

You may notice:

• How easily your parent moves through their home

• How they manage meals, errands, and appointments

• Whether the home feels as well maintained as it once did

• Changes in mood, energy, or engagement

Experts emphasize that noticing patterns matters more than focusing on one-off moments.

Physical Changes Experts Say to Gently Watch For

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention notes that mobility and strength changes often happen gradually and are easiest to spot during extended visits.

During your stay, you might notice:

• Slower movement or difficulty with stairs

• Fatigue during routine outings

• Changes in appetite or noticeable weight loss

• Laundry, grooming, or housekeeping tasks piling up

Individually, these changes may seem minor. Together, they can indicate daily tasks are becoming more challenging.

Cognitive and Behavioral Shifts Family Members Often Spot First

Organizations like AARP and the Alzheimer’s Association stress that early cognitive changes are frequently noticed by loved ones before they’re addressed medically.

Watch for:

• Repeated stories or questions within short periods

• Missed appointments or confusion around dates

• Frustration with mail, bills, or technology

• Pulling back from hobbies or social activities

These signs do not automatically mean something serious is happening, but they do signal it may be time for supportive conversations.

Florida-Specific Home Red Flags in Boca Raton and South Florida

Living in South Florida comes with unique home responsibilities that can become harder to manage with age.

Adult children often notice:

• Deferred maintenance from heat and humidity

• Difficulty keeping up with yardwork or condo and HOA requirements

• Hurricane preparedness plans that feel incomplete or outdated

• Clutter accumulating in walkways or living spaces

• Expired food or medications stored away

The National Council on Aging notes that home safety concerns are a leading contributor to falls among older adults.

Emotional Signs That Can Be Easy to Miss

Parents often try to protect their children from worry, especially when those children live in another state.

You may sense:

• Loneliness once the holiday bustle fades

• Anxiety about health, finances, or home upkeep

• Hesitation to ask for help

• Humor used to deflect stress or uncertainty

These cues often surface during quieter moments, not large family gatherings.

How Experts Recommend Starting the Conversation

Gerontologists consistently stress that tone matters more than timing.

Helpful approaches include:

• Leading with observations, not assumptions

• Asking open-ended questions

• Offering support instead of solutions

• Keeping conversations collaborative rather than corrective

Simple language can go a long way:

• “I noticed a few things and wanted to check in.”

• “How are you feeling about managing everything lately?”

• “What would make things easier right now?”

What Happens After the Holidays Matters Just as Much

The National Institute on Aging encourages families to view holiday visits as the beginning of ongoing conversations, not one-time assessments.

Next steps may include:

• Scheduling regular check-ins after returning home

• Making small safety updates

• Talking about future plans before a crisis arises

• Exploring options like downsizing or simplifying life in South Florida

• Connecting with trusted local professionals when appropriate

Planning ahead often reduces stress for both parents and adult children.

A Thought Many Families Share

Holiday visits to Boca Raton are filled with sunshine, traditions, and meaningful moments.

They’re also a rare opportunity to notice, listen, and gently plan for what’s ahead.

Experts agree that paying attention early allows families to make thoughtful decisions together, rather than reactive ones later.

If you need any recommendations or assistance regarding home maintenenance, assisted living/memory care and some of the vendors I know, I am happy to set up a time to chat...simply schedule a time here on my calendar! 

About Michele Bellisari

Michele Bellisari is the founder of #SoooBoca® Lifestyle & Media based in Boca Raton and a Realtor with Real Broker. If you are thinking of buying or selling real estate in Boca Raton and any surrounding cities, let her help you!

Do you need to sell your inherited property? Let Michele help you with the details of getting it ready for market. Are you considering downsizing or perhaps you are an empty nester, let Michele help you navigate the next chapter.

Information in this post should be verified with your accountant, attorney and or financial planner as well as the state of Florida. Information in all posts should be verified independently. Information deemed reliable, not guaranteed. 

How Can I Help You Buy or Sell A Property? 

Click to Get Your Home Valuation 

Start Your Home Search Here

Palm Beach County Neighborhood Snapshots