How to Arrange Care for an Elderly Parent at Home (Without the Stress)
- Homelium
- Nov 5, 2025
- 3 min read
When Mum first started forgetting her medication, it didn’t seem serious. Then the little things began to add up missed meals, unopened post, and the worry that she might fall when no one was there.
If you’ve reached that point where you know your parent needs more support, but you’re unsure what to do next, you’re not alone. Every week, families come to Homelium asking the same question:
“How do I actually arrange care for my mum or dad at home?”
The truth is, it doesn’t have to be complicated — and with the right help, it can bring real peace of mind.
1. Start with an honest conversation
Before making any arrangements, sit down and talk openly with your loved one.Many older adults fear that “care” means losing independence or being sent to a home. Reassure them that home care is about staying at home, not leaving it.
Try gentle, open questions like:
“Would it help if someone came in to give you a hand with the shopping or meals?”
“Would you feel safer knowing someone could check in each morning?”
Framing care as support rather than intervention can make all the difference.
2. Understand what level of care is needed
Every situation is different. Some families only need a few hours of visiting care each week, while others require specialist dementia or live-in care.
Ask yourself:
Are there medical conditions that need specialist attention?
Does your loved one struggle with mobility or memory?
How much support do they have from family already?
At Homelium, we often carry out a free care consultation to help families work this out — no obligation, just clarity. It’s a simple chat that helps you decide what kind of care would make the biggest difference.
3. Research local home care providers
Look for care companies that are CQC-registered and have good reviews. A reputable provider should offer:
A clear assessment process
Trained, DBS-checked carers
A person-centred approach that focuses on independence and dignity
You can check reviews on homecare.co.uk, or simply ask neighbours or your local Age UK branch for recommendations.
If you’re based in areas like Hampshire, West Sussex, Dorset or Essex, Homelium’s local care teams provide everything from companionship visits to 24-hour live-in care — always tailored to the individual.
4. Arrange a home visit and care plan
Once you’ve shortlisted a provider, they’ll usually visit your loved one at home to carry out a care assessment.This is where you can discuss preferences, routines, medical needs, and what “good care” looks like for your family.
A high-quality provider will build a bespoke care plan, covering:
Daily tasks (meals, medication, personal care)
Companionship and mental wellbeing
Regular family updates and care reviews
Good home care should feel like continuity — not a disruption.
5. Keep communication open
Once care begins, check in regularly with your parent and their care manager.Ask how things are going, what’s working well, and if any adjustments are needed.
At Homelium, our carers become part of the family — and we make it a priority to ensure families feel informed and supported every step of the way.
6. Remember: You don’t have to do this alone
Arranging care is emotional. It’s normal to feel guilty or unsure, but choosing care at home often gives your loved one more independence, safety, and comfort than struggling alone.
If you’re starting to explore home care options, we can help you talk through what’s best for your family — from a quick phone chat to a free home visit.
Because at Homelium, our mission is simple:
Nobody should have to go into a care home if they’d rather stay at home.
💬 Get in touch
If you’d like to speak to one of our local care experts, call 0333 344 8677 or book a free consultation through our website. We’ll help you find care that fits your family, not just your postcode.
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