Vital signs are more than just numbers—they offer key insights into a person’s overall health. For caregivers supporting an aging parent or loved one at home, understanding what these signs mean can help you notice changes early, ask the right questions, and work more effectively with healthcare providers.
Whether you’re checking in between doctor visits or helping a care professional track progress, knowing what’s “normal” and when something seems off is a valuable tool in your caregiving toolkit. This guide focuses on the four most essential vital signs in senior care:
- Heart rate
- Breathing
- Blood pressure
- Body temperature
Here are four practical takeaways to keep in mind—and raise with a healthcare provider if you notice anything out of the ordinary.
1. Not All Pulse Rates Are Created Equal
A healthy resting heart rate typically ranges from 60 to 100 beats per minute, but that range can vary depending on age, medications, and activity levels. To measure someone’s pulse, gently place two fingers on the inside of their wrist (on the thumb side) and count the beats for 15 seconds, then multiply by four.
If the rhythm feels irregular or you suspect skipped beats, count for the full 60 seconds.
- Above 100 bpm: May indicate tachycardia (fast heart rate)
- Below 50–60 bpm: May suggest bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Irregular patterns: Could signal cardiovascular issues
While occasional variations can be normal, persistent changes or new symptoms like dizziness or fainting should be flagged with a doctor.
2. Every Breath Tells a Story
Breathing might seem automatic, but it’s full of health cues. From conditions like asthma, COPD, or pneumonia, even subtle changes in breathing can be signs of respiratory strain in seniors.
What to watch and listen for:
- Breathing that is too fast, too shallow, or laboured
- Wheezing, gasping, or irregular patterns
- Discoloured or pale skin (especially around the lips or fingertips)
Adults typically take 12 to 20 breaths per minute while at rest. Keep track of any changes, especially if they’re accompanied by fatigue or confusion.
3. Blood Pressure Is a Big Indicator of Overall Health
Blood pressure tends to rise with age—but big swings, whether too high or too low, are worth noting. A typical healthy reading is around 120/80, but that can vary depending on the person.
Key things to know:
- Blood pressure fluctuates throughout the day
- It’s affected by stress, activity, hydration, and medications
- After exertion, it should return to normal within five minutes
Watch for consistently high readings (hypertension) or very low readings (hypotension), and always share unusual patterns with a healthcare provider.
4. Body Temperature Deserves More Attention
Temperature tends to get overlooked, but it can tell you a lot about what’s going on inside. Seniors naturally lose body fat as they age, which can affect how they regulate warmth. Here’s what to monitor:
- Below 95°F (35°C): Could indicate illness or a medication reaction
- Above 100°F (37.8°C): May be a fever and sign of infection
- Chills or excessive sweating may also point to an underlying issue
Always double-check abnormal temperatures, and don’t assume a small shift is nothing—especially in older adults.
Final Thoughts
Heart rate, breathing, blood pressure, and body temperature offer real-time insights into your loved one’s health. By learning what’s normal and when to be concerned, you’re playing a crucial role in keeping them safe, comfortable, and well-supported at home.
📞 Have questions or ready to explore care options? Contact TheKey Canada today at 1-844-655-0880 to speak with a Care Advisor. We’re here to help you make the best home care choice for your family.