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It’s natural to worry about a loved one, and knowing when to seek care can feel overwhelming. Some signs to look out for include difficulty with daily tasks, increased forgetfulness, mobility issues, or changes in mood and behaviour. If your mum is struggling to maintain her independence or you’re concerned for her safety, it might be time to explore care options. A live-in carer can provide support while allowing her to remain in the comfort of her own home. The best approach is to have an open conversation and consider her needs together.

If your parents want to stay in their own home but don’t want a live-in carer, hourly care could be a great alternative. A carer can visit at set times to assist with daily tasks, companionship, and personal care while respecting their independence. That way, they get the support they need without making a big lifestyle change.

Choosing the right care service can feel overwhelming, but the key is to focus on your loved one’s needs and preferences. Consider whether they need full-time support, occasional help, or simply companionship. Live-in care is a great option for those who want to remain at home with continuous support, while hourly care may suit someone who needs companionship and someone to take them to appointments. It’s also important to choose a provider that aligns with your family’s values and offers personalised care. Speaking with a care consultant can help you explore the best fit.

Planning ahead is a great way to ensure they have the right support in place when the time comes. Start by having conversations about their preferences, such as whether they’d like to start introducing hourly care or consider different care options. Understanding financial aspects, exploring local services, and keeping an eye on any changes in their health or mobility will also help you make informed decisions when needed. Many families choose to introduce small levels of support early on, such as companionship care, to make future transitions smoother.

You can describe home care as having a friendly helper who comes to support someone at home. Try saying, “A carer is like a special friend who helps Granddad with things like making meals, getting dressed, and keeping him company so he stays happy and safe.” This makes the concept feel positive and reassuring.

A carer matching service helps connect you with a vetted, self-employed carer who matches your needs and preferences. Unlike a fully managed care service, you remain responsible for managing all aspects of your care, including contracts and payments.

CareConnect is ideal for those who want full control over their care and are comfortable handling the administrative side of the arrangement. However, if you prefer a fully managed service with ongoing oversight and support from a dedicated Care Team, take a look at our live-in care packages.

Social engagement and staying active are essential for well-being. If getting out and about is becoming difficult, a carer or companion can provide transport, accompany her on outings, or simply offer company at home. Local community groups or befriending services may also help her stay socially connected. The key is to find a balance that supports her independence while ensuring she feels safe and engaged. A lack of social interaction and isolation can have a significant emotional impact, often leading to a decline in physical well-being. In many cases, companionship is just as important—if not more so—than any other aspect of care when it comes to maintaining overall health and well-being.

Small changes can help! Offer drinks she enjoys, such as squash/cordial, (herbal) tea, or flavoured water, if she dislikes plain water. Keep a glass or bottle within easy reach and remind her to sip throughout the day. Foods with high water content, like jelly, fruit, soup, and yoghurt, can also help improve hydration. If needed, a carer can provide gentle reminders and assistance to ensure she drinks enough fluids.

Living far away from an ageing parent can be challenging, but there are ways to ensure she gets the care and companionship she needs. A live-in carer can provide round-the-clock support, helping with daily tasks, companionship, and any health-related needs. Regular updates from the carer and video calls with Mum can help you stay involved and reassured that she’s in good hands. Planning ahead and having a trusted support system in place can make all the difference.

Use simple language and reassure them. You can say, “Gran’s brain is like a big library, but some of the books are missing, so she forgets things.” Encourage kindness and patience, and let them know that even if their loved one forgets names, they still love them. Reading age-appropriate books about dementia together can also help.

Care costs can be a concern, but there are different funding options that may be available depending on your mum’s circumstances. Local authority funding, NHS Continuing Healthcare, and Attendance Allowance are just a few potential sources of support. Read more on our website under Care Costs.

It’s completely understandable for an elderly parent to feel uncertain about accepting care. The best approach is to have open, empathetic conversations, focusing on how care can enhance their independence rather than take it away. Introducing care gradually – perhaps through companionship visits or occasional support – can also help ease the transition. Reassure them that they’ll remain in control and that care is about improving their quality of life, not taking away their freedom.

It’s understandable to have concerns, but there are care solutions that can help your daughter live independently while still receiving the support she needs. A live-in carer can provide assistance with daily tasks, ensuring she remains safe and well-supported while allowing her to enjoy university life. Tailored care plans can be designed to fit her needs, giving both of you peace of mind. It’s worth exploring options early so she can transition smoothly into this new chapter.

Yes, planning ahead can be really beneficial. Exploring care options early allows you to understand what support is available and ensures your parents have a say in their future care. It also means that when the time comes, you won’t have to make rushed decisions during a crisis. Starting conversations now can help normalise the idea of care, making any future transitions smoother and less stressful for everyone involved. Even if care isn’t needed yet, small support measures—like companionship visits or help with household tasks—can make a big difference in maintaining their independence.

Caring for loved ones while juggling other responsibilities can be exhausting, and it’s important to look after your own well-being too. Home care services can provide support for your parents, whether through live-in care or regular visits from an hourly carer. This can ease your workload and ensure they receive professional, compassionate care. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness—it allows you to be there for your family without sacrificing your own health.

Being registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC) means that a care provider meets strict standards for safety, quality, and professionalism. CQC regularly inspects and monitors care services to ensure they are delivering high-quality, person-centred care. Choosing a CQC-registered provider gives you peace of mind that the service is accountable, well-regulated, and committed to continuous improvement.

Caring for an active disabled adult can be physically and emotionally demanding. A professional live-in or hourly carer can provide support by engaging him in activities, ensuring his safety, and assisting with daily routines. This allows you to take breaks while knowing he’s in good hands. Personalised care can be tailored to his needs, promoting independence while giving you peace of mind.

Yes, we offer short-term hospital discharge care in our hourly care locations. Whether you need support for 48 hours or a few weeks, an hourly carer can assist with tasks like mobility, meal preparation, medication reminders, and personal care during your recovery. That way you have the help you need while staying in the comfort of your own home. If your recovery is likely to take longer than two weeks, you could also look at our short-term live-in care services.