Where can I get help for my elderly parents?
Friendly care for families, delivered by trained Care Professionals with experience in helping support older adults who wish to remain independent in their own home.
Should I outsource help for my elderly parents?
The care of an older person often falls on their adult children, which can cause significant stress for those still in work, caring for children, or who have other daily responsibilities. Age UK surveyed 6.6 million people considering caring for an older parent, and found that 79% said they wouldn’t know how, 69% worried about juggling other life responsibilities, and 61% said they would struggle financially.
Outsourcing the care of an older parent may feel difficult, but it could be the best decision for everyone in order to provide quality care, particularly if your parent has a health condition that requires specialist care. Whether you need full-time live-in care or just a few hours of respite care to give you a break, there are options.
What services are available for older people?
Depending on your older parent’s needs, you may have the choice of several types of help, such as:
- Sitting services – A carer will sit with the person for a few hours in case of emergencies to give families short breaks for meals or errands
- Companionship – Visiting care to do activities (such as games), or just chat to keep loneliness at bay
- Visiting care – Flexible care covering basic needs like personal care and home help
- Live-in care – 24/7 care for those with medical needs, dementia, or severe mobility issues
- Respite care – Temporary care to relieve families of their usual caregiving duties for a while
Other services – Other ad hoc services exist for older people, such as meal deliveries, befriending services, day care centres, and more
Does my older parent need help?
It can be challenging to know when a parent needs help at home, particularly if they have always seemed capable of living alone. Recognising and accepting when a parent needs help is vital to keep them safe and comfortable in their home. Older parents may start to show signs of physical or cognitive decline, such as:
- Poor hygiene or ignoring personal care
- Weight loss
- Missed medications
- Memory loss
- Depression or anxiety (common mental health conditions)
- Loneliness
- Difficulty maintaining routines
- Worrying about falls (36% of older people say falling is their primary concern)
If you have reached a point where you believe care is needed for your ageing parent, start by speaking to their GP to get advice on their potential needs going forward.
How can we help?
We've helped thousands of families to stay safe, comfortable and happy at home. Whatever situation you're facing, or whatever the question is, Home Instead is here to help.
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I am very happy with the support, care and kindness I receive from all the staff of Home Instead.B.M, Client
Home Instead have been looking after my father for a few years now, without them we would not be able to manage having him living in his own home. They are always bright and cheerful and Dad enjoys seeing them.Bridget, Clients Family
I have had my care from Home Instead for almost ten years and things just keep getting better. I can’t praise them enough.Kevan, Client
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How to get started arranging care for a parent
If you have decided to arrange home care, the next steps may include:
- Discussing this with your parent if they are receptive to it, and involving them in the process so they feel more in control and calm about the change
- Arranging a free Care Needs Assessment where the local council will visit their home to discuss care options and carry out a financial assessment to determine whether they may be eligible for funded care
- Speaking to other family members if you can, so the responsibility does not only fall on you
- Deciding which option is best for your budget (you may find our articles helpful, such as Home Care vs A Care Home and How To Choose & Arrange Home Care)
Arranging practical things like getting power of attorney for an older parent
Why Home Instead?
Arranging care for an older parent can be daunting, which is why we strive to make the process of arranging care flexible, straightforward and considerate of your needs and budget. Our Care Professionals are highly trained to deliver the services you need, and we are proudly rated 9.6 on Homecare.co.uk, with many of our locations also rated “outstanding” by the CQC. No matter the type of care you need for your elderly parent, we can provide a tailored service that suits.
“Home Instead have been looking after my father for a few years now, without them we would not be able to manage having him living in his own home. They are always bright and cheerful and Dad enjoys seeing them.”
– Bridget, Client’s family
FAQs
What types of help are available for elderly parents?
There are various types of support available, including:
- Home Care Services: Help with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and personal care.
- NHS Services: Access to district nurses, physiotherapy, and other healthcare support.
- Companionship Services: Social interaction to reduce loneliness.
- Respite Care: Temporary relief for family carers.
- Local Council Support: Assistance with adaptations, equipment, or care needs assessments.
How do I know if my parents need help?
Signs your parents may need support include:
- Struggling with daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, or personal hygiene.
- Forgetfulness or confusion that impacts their safety.
- Mobility issues or frequent falls.
- Social withdrawal or changes in mood and behaviour.
- A cluttered or unkempt home.
If you notice these signs, it’s worth contacting your local council for a care needs assessment.
How can I find reliable home care services?
To find reliable home care services:
- Use the Care Quality Commission (CQC) website to check ratings and reviews of care providers.
- Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or your GP.
- Contact local charities like Age UK for advice and resources.
- Arrange a consultation with a care provider to discuss your parents’ needs and create a tailored care plan.
Reputable agencies will be registered with the CQC and provide trained, DBS-checked carers. The best home care agencies, like Home Instead, will work with you to ensure the best fit for a Care Professional for your loved one’s needs and preferences.
What financial support is available for elderly care?
Financial support options include:
- Attendance Allowance: A non-means-tested benefit for those needing help with personal care.
- Carer’s Allowance: For family members providing care for at least 35 hours a week.
- NHS Continuing Healthcare (CHC): Funding for those with significant health needs.
- Local Authority Funding: Means-tested support for care services or home adaptations.
- Charity Support: Organisations like Age UK or Carers UK may offer grants or advice.
Contact your local council or a benefits advisor to explore these options.
How can I support my elderly parents while balancing my own life?
Balancing caregiving and personal responsibilities can be challenging. Consider:
- Hiring professional carers to share the workload.
- Using respite care services to take breaks and recharge.
- Reaching out to local charities like Carers UK for advice and support.
- Involving other family members in caregiving duties.
- Prioritising self-care and setting boundaries to avoid burnout.
Professional home care services can provide peace of mind and ensure your parents receive quality care while you maintain balance in your life.
Diane WIlliams , Head of Quality & Standards
Before joining Home Instead, I built a comprehensive career in the social care sector, beginning in 1991 as a frontline care worker and advancing to senior leadership roles across both private and voluntary sector businesses.
Throughout my career, I have supported diverse care groups in a variety of settings, including community, residential, nursing, and secure environments. My experience spans working with older adults, including those living with dementia; individuals with physical disabilities and complex, long-term health needs; people with learning disabilities, including autism; individuals with enduring mental health challenges; individuals with current or past substance use and those with forensic backgrounds.
In 2002, I qualified as a social worker and have since maintained my professional registration with Social Work England.