Why I Urge Families to Plan Ahead for Care From Annie the Director of Homelium Care

Annie, Director of Homelium

Over the years at Homelium, I’ve witnessed so many families face the same challenge being thrown into difficult decisions when a loved one’s health suddenly changes.

One day everything seems fine, and the next you’re being told to arrange care, quickly and under pressure.

That’s why I always say:

"Don’t wait for a crisis. Plan ahead."

💬 The Calls We Hear Too Often

Time and again, we get urgent phone calls:

“Mum’s been discharged and we don’t know where to start…”“Dad’s had a fall and we need care urgently…”“The hospital has told us to find support, but we don’t know what’s right…”

We’ll always step in and support families in those moments. But the truth is: care decisions made in crisis are often rushed, overwhelming, and emotionally draining.

When families plan ahead, the experience is completely different.

🧭 What Planning Ahead Really Means

Planning ahead doesn’t mean booking care straight away. It means being informed, prepared, and calm when the time comes.

It looks like:

• Understanding the difference between home care and care homes

• Having open conversations with your loved one early

• Knowing the signs that someone may need extra support

• Exploring your care options before you feel pressured to decide

• Making sure your loved one’s wishes are heard

  
  

🙋‍♀️ Why This Matters So Much

I started Homelium because I saw too many people ending up in care homes—not because it was the right fit, but because there was no plan in place. They simply ran out of time or options.

Home care can offer something different. It can keep people in the place they love most home, with personalised support and a sense of independence.

But that’s only possible if families know what’s available, and feel confident making choices before they’re in a crisis.

💡 The Benefits of Planning Early

When you plan care early:

• You have time to consider options—not just take what’s available

• Your loved one can be part of the decision-making

• There’s less pressure and stress for the whole family

• You avoid emergency costs or last-minute arrangements

• You preserve your loved one’s routine, comfort, and dignity

  
  

👣 Take One Small Step

You don’t need to make big decisions today. But I encourage every family to just start the conversation.

📥 Download our free guide: 10 Signs Your Loved One May Need Care

📞 Book a no-pressure consultation—it’s just a friendly chat

☕ Come along to one of our 'Coffee & Care Planning Chat' events near you

When families plan ahead, care becomes something empowering, not something to fear.

💬 Let’s Talk—Before You Feel Like You Have To

We’re here to support you through every stage especially the early ones.

Care planning doesn’t have to be scary or complicated. With the right information, it can feel like clarity, control, and peace of mind.

Warmly,

Annie Director, Homelium Care