Liverpool has a large older population, with around 79,708 people aged 65 and over living in the city. As this number continues to shape local communities, more families may find themselves helping an older parent, relative or loved one stay comfortable at home.
Getting older can bring changes in mobility, energy, memory and the ability to manage everyday tasks. Simple jobs such as cooking, shopping, cleaning or getting around the house can become harder, especially after an illness or fall.
Keep reading to learn simple ways you can support a loved one who is ageing at home.
1. Check for Fall Risks
Falls are one of the main safety concerns for older people. One particular study shows that around one-third of people aged 65 and over, and about half of those aged 80 and over, experience at least one fall each year. A fall can lead to fractures, hospital treatment and a loss of confidence about moving around independently.
Check floors, stairs and walkways for loose rugs, trailing cables, clutter and poor lighting. Stair rails should be secure, while frequently used items should be kept at an easy-to-reach height.
Bathrooms can also be adapted with grab rails, non-slip flooring, shower seats and raised toilet seats where needed. An occupational therapist can assess the home and recommend equipment or changes based on the person’s mobility.
2. Support Everyday Tasks
Cooking, cleaning, shopping and laundry can become harder when strength, balance or mobility changes. Start by identifying the specific tasks causing problems.
Batch cooking can provide several ready-to-heat meals, while grocery deliveries can reduce the need for carrying heavy bags. Laundry baskets with wheels and lightweight cleaning equipment can also make household jobs easier.
Personal care may need more support. This can include washing, dressing, using the toilet, and getting in or out of bed. Let the person continue with tasks they can safely manage to keep as much independence as possible.
3. Stay on Top of Medication
Older adults are more likely to take several medicines at the same time, making missed or incorrect doses a concern. Keep an up-to-date list of all prescribed medicines, including the dose and when each one should be taken.
A dosette box or monitored dosage system may help some people keep track of tablets. Pharmacies can also provide advice about repeat prescriptions and medication routines.
Do not change a dose, stop a medicine or combine medicines without medical advice. If your relative regularly forgets medication, struggles to open containers or becomes confused about their tablets, speak to their GP or pharmacist.
4. Keep Meals and Drinks Regular
Older people can be more vulnerable to dehydration and poor nutrition, particularly when appetite decreases or preparing food becomes difficult. Signs of dehydration can include a dry mouth, dark urine, dizziness, tiredness and confusion.
Keep drinks easy to reach and offer them regularly. Water, milk, tea and other suitable drinks all contribute to fluid intake.
Meals should provide a good mix of protein, carbohydrates, fruit and vegetables. Eggs, fish, beans, yoghurt and lean meat are useful protein sources. If appetite is low, smaller meals and nutritious snacks can be easier to manage than three large meals.
5. Keep Social Contact Regular
Spending long periods alone can affect an older person’s mood and confidence. A weekly family visit, phone call, coffee together or short walk can provide useful social contact.
Liverpool has community centres, libraries, social groups and activities for older residents. Local Age UK services can also provide information about activities, befriending and support available in the area.
6) Bring in Extra Care Support
Family members can provide useful support, but their availability may change because of work, distance, or other responsibilities. Professional care can fill specific gaps without requiring an older person to move out of their home.
If an older relative needs more help and you are not able to provide this support, Mountbatton Care provides home care in Liverpool tailored around each person’s needs and daily routine.
Support can cover personal care, meal preparation, medication prompts, companionship and household tasks. Care visits can also be arranged around existing routines.
7. Review Support as Needs Change
Review your relative’s needs when there is a change in their health or ability to manage daily activities.
Look at practical areas such as washing, dressing, eating, medication, mobility, sleeping and getting around the house. Changes in memory or confusion should also be discussed with a healthcare professional.
Liverpool City Council’s adult social care service can assess care and support needs. Depending on the assessment, help may include equipment, home adaptations, care services or other forms of support.
Supporting an Older Relative at Home
Helping an older relative stay at home often starts with small changes. Making the house safer, helping with daily tasks, keeping track of appointments, and maintaining regular social contact can make everyday life easier.
Care arrangements should change when the person’s needs change. Some people may only need help with shopping or cleaning, while others may need support with personal care and daily routines.
Most importantly, involve the older person in decisions about their care. Their preferences, independence, and normal routine should remain central when deciding what support is needed at home.
