Caring for elderly relatives at home can be both rewarding and challenging. Many older people prefer to stay in familiar surroundings rather than move into a care home. With the right support, they can continue living safely and comfortably.
According to Age UK, around 3.8 million older people in the UK live alone, and loneliness is a growing concern. Providing proper care at home can help improve their quality of life and prevent isolation.
Make the Home Safe and Comfortable
A safe home is essential for an elderly person’s well-being and falls and accidents are common as mobility decreases, with the NHS reporting that one in three adults over 65 will experience a fall each year. Simple changes can make a big difference.
Removing loose rugs, improving lighting, and installing handrails can help prevent falls. Non-slip mats in the bathroom and kitchen add extra safety.
For those with reduced mobility, getting upstairs can become difficult. Installing a stairlift or looking for a stairlift rental can provide a practical solution without the need for major home modifications.
Support with Daily Tasks
Many elderly people struggle with everyday activities such as cooking, cleaning, and shopping. Offering help with these activities can make life easier. Preparing meals in advance, arranging for grocery deliveries, and hiring a cleaner or carer for extra support can make a big difference.
Small changes, like using a kettle tipper to avoid lifting heavy objects, also help with daily independence.
Look at Keeping Them Connected
Loneliness is a big problem for many elderly people, which can affect their mental and physical health. In fact, research suggests that half a million older people in the UK go at least five or six days a week without seeing or speaking to anyone. Keeping them connected to family, friends, and the community helps improve their well-being.
- Visiting regularly for a chat or a cup of tea
- Arranging phone or video calls with family members
- Encouraging them to join local groups or activities
- Looking into community transport schemes to help them get out and about
Help with Medical Needs
Managing medication and medical appointments can be overwhelming, especially if memory is declining. Helping with this can prevent missed doses and improve health outcomes.
Setting up reminders for medication, using a pill organiser, and attending medical appointments with them can make managing health conditions easier. Keeping a list of important phone numbers, such as their doctor and pharmacy, can also be useful in case of emergencies.
We’ve Got to Provide Mobility Support
Moving around the house and getting outside can become difficult with age and making adjustments can massively help you maintain independence. Mobility aids such as walking frames and grab bars can provide extra support.
If climbing stairs is becoming unsafe, a stairlift can be a practical solution, so if you start implementing gentle exercise, this can also help improve strength and balance, reducing the risk of falls.
Same Goes With Arranging Care and Support
Professional care may be needed at some stage, even if it’s just for a few hours a week. Support from carers can help with personal care, medication, and companionship.
- Looking into local care services that offer home visits
- Considering respite care if family members need a break
- Exploring financial support options to help with care costs
- Discussing care needs with the elderly person to involve them in decisions
Be Patient and Understanding
Caring for an elderly relative can be challenging, especially if they are struggling with memory loss, illness, or frustration about losing their independence. Patience and understanding go a long way.
Listening to their concerns, respecting their independence, and taking breaks when needed can help both the carer and the elderly person cope better. Seeking support from other family members or professional carers can also make the process easier.
Supporting an elderly person at home requires planning, patience, and a willingness to adapt to their changing needs. With the right approach, they can enjoy a safe, comfortable, and fulfilling life in their own home.