The Role of Family in Home Care: How to Work Together

When a loved one needs extra support at home, it’s natural for family members to want to help. But caring for someone, especially an aging parent or relative, can be overwhelming, especially when you're juggling work, kids, or your own health. That’s where professional home care steps in, not to replace family, but to work alongside you.

Here’s how families and professional carers can work together to provide the best care, while maintaining strong, supportive relationships.

1. Understand Everyone’s Role

Home carers are trained to assist with personal care, medication management, mobility and companionship. Family members, on the other hand, offer emotional support, deep personal knowledge and a sense of continuity.

Working together means knowing your strengths. Let professional carers handle clinical or physical tasks, while you focus on quality time, emotional connection and decision-making.

2. Communicate Openly

Clear communication is the foundation of great care. Set up:

• A shared care journal or app to log visits, updates, and notes

• Regular check-ins with carers or care coordinators

• A WhatsApp or email thread for family members to stay informed

Tip: Ask your care provider if they offer digital care plans or family updates.

3. Respect the Person Being Cared For

Care decisions should always prioritise the person receiving care. Involve them in choices about routines, meals and how support is provided, even if they have cognitive challenges. Empowering them helps maintain dignity and independence.

4. Don’t Try to Do It All

It’s common for one family member to take on the majority of the care, often without realising it’s too much. Home care allows you to delegate tasks even a few hours a week can lighten the load and prevent burnout.

Remember: Asking for help is not giving up, it’s being smart and sustainable.

5. Create a Care Plan Together

Having a clear plan ensures consistency and reduces stress. A good care plan outlines:

• Daily routines

• Medication schedules

• Emergency contacts

• Preferences and dislikes

Work with your care provider to create and update this plan regularly.

6. Celebrate the Wins (Big and Small)

Caring can be challenging but it’s also deeply meaningful. Celebrate small milestones, like improved mood, a successful physio session, or just a day of laughter.

Shared caregiving is a team effort, and every member deserves recognition.

Home care works best when it’s a partnership between professional carers and loving families. With open communication, clear roles and mutual respect, you can build a care system that truly supports your loved one’s independence and wellbeing, while also protecting your own.

Need support or want to learn more about how home care can help your family?📞 Contact Homelium today for a free, friendly consultation.

Call us on 0333 3448 677