Dehydration — Medication, illness or a kidney issue can cause dehydration as can limited access to liquids for bedridden patients. Look for symptoms such as confusion, dizziness, dry mouth, difficulty walking, sunken eyes, constipation, low blood pressure and low urine output.

Malnutrition — Dementia, medication, illness and depression are all common reasons elderly people stop eating well. Symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, muscle weakness, feeling cold and inability to concentrate.

Rapid weight loss or weight gain — Poor diet, medication, depression, illness and dementia are all potential causes of dramatic weight changes.

Unclean living conditions — The condition of your loved one's room, bathroom, dining room and other areas can make them sick. Check for signs that cleaning is cursory or irregular.