How to help your elderly parents in Maidstone: Practical ways to support them at home
Discover practical ways to support your elderly parents in Maidstone, from staying connected to leveraging local care services and community resources.
As our parents age, many of us wonder how we can best support them, especially when we juggle other responsibilities or live far away. At Home Instead Maidstone, we understand the importance of enabling older adults to remain in their own homes, where they feel safe, secure, and connected to their community.
1. Understand their preferences and concerns
The Home Instead UK New Ageing Index Report highlights that a significant number of older adults wish to stay in their own homes rather than move to a care home. Many find the idea of relocating more distressing than other major life events, with a strong preference for receiving care at home. This concern is particularly strong among those aged 66-74, with 60% expressing worries. Additionally, 91% of the oldest adults indicate a preference for receiving medical care at home.
Understanding your parents’ concerns and preferences is a critical first step. Have open conversations with them about their needs and desires so that you can support them in a way that aligns with their wishes.
2. Stay connected and in touch
Regular contact with loved ones can be incredibly reassuring for older adults. Encourage family and friends to stay in touch through phone calls, video chats, and even handwritten notes or postcards. If you’re not always available, consider scheduling regular check-ins from local companions or Care Professionals who can offer company and keep you informed.
Home Instead Maidstone provides an app for clients and families, to keep you updated on your loved one’s care, including details of each visit. This allows you to stay connected and involved in their daily lives, even from afar.
A local story and client review
“We initially contacted Home Instead because we wanted a companion to spend one day a week with Dad doing the things he enjoyed which the family were not able to provide on a regular basis, specifically taking him out in the car and for walks in the countryside.
Home Instead were able to provide a wonderful lady for 2 years who provided that and much, much more. She got to know Dad very well and went above and beyond to ensure he was happy, had fun, enjoyed himself, and had nourishing drinks and meals.
She took him out whatever the weather, finding places to walk about indoors with lots of time to chat and have a coffee if it was cold or wet. She was very reliable and cover was provided during her holidays by equally lovely ladies. She became a friend and great support to Dad’s companion too.’
Daughter of Client, Home Instead Maidstone, 5 Star Review via Homecare.co.uk
3.Encourage getting involved in local activities
Social engagement is good for mental and emotional well-being. Encourage your parents to stay involved in social activities in and around Maidstone, such as joining a local club, attending social events, or participating in hobbies they enjoy. Whether it’s a gardening group, a book club, or a weekly meet-up with friends, staying socially active can help them feel more connected, independent and lift spirits.
Our team at Home Instead Maidstone can help your parents attend activities by providing transport and support to make participation easier and more enjoyable. We also host a regular local dementia-friendly memory cafe in partnership with Kenwood Trust.
4. Seek respite and additional support
We understand that taking the first step toward arranging care at home can feel daunting. However, many of our clients are pleasantly surprised by how much they or their parents enjoy the visits and the unexpected benefits they experience—both in terms of companionship and overall well-being.
The benefits of local home care services, like those offered by Home Instead Maidstone, is to provide extra support tailored to your parents needs and support every client, as well as families and family caregivers.
Whether needing companionship, or help with daily tasks, such as bathing, dressing, or meal preparation, or requiring more specialised care for conditions like dementia or Parkinson’s, our trained Care Professionals are here to help. We also offer live-in care options ensuring your loved one has someone on hand.
Caring for an elderly parent requires love, time, energy, and patience. Don’t hesitate to seek respite care if you need a break. Home Instead Maidstone offers flexible respite services to give you the time to recharge, knowing your loved one is in capable hands. Remember, it’s okay to ask for help—from other family members, friends, or professionals.
We can help
Every client and every family’s situation is unique, and finding the right balance of support is important. At Home Instead Maidstone, we offer personalised guidance and tailored care options to help you find your way through these decisions with confidence. Our outstanding rated team is here to help you explore the best solutions to support your parents in maintaining their independence and quality of life at home.
Contact us today to learn how our friendly and professional team at Home Instead Maidstone can help and have a confidential conversation about your loved one.
If you would like to join our team of Care Professionals in the local area apply today to take the first step.