Talking about care: You’re not alone
Talking about care with a parent or loved one can feel like one of the hardest conversations you’ll ever have. Whether you’re worried about how Mum is coping on her own, or you’re living with older parents and starting to notice signs they might need more support, it’s normal to feel anxious, uncertain, and even guilty. But you’re not alone.
This guide from Radfield Home Care — one of the UK’s leading providers of live in care and visiting care — is designed to support families in having open, constructive conversations. We’ve been delivering compassionate care since 1982, and with over 34 local offices, our teams are ready to help you explore your options and find the right approach for your family.
Recognising when it’s time to talk about care
Thinking about care often starts with small signs — maybe Mum’s finding daily tasks harder, or Dad’s not quite himself. Here are some indicators it might be time to open up a conversation:
- Difficulty managing at home
- Memory loss or confusion
- Changes in personal hygiene
- A recent hospital discharge
- Increased isolation or sadness
- Difficulty managing medication
Jane from Shrewsbury: “When Dad left hospital, we were anxious about how we would meet his care needs. Thanks to Radfield, Dad made a smooth transition home…”
Starting the conversation early can help everyone feel more in control of the decision-making process.
What is home care?
Home care, also known as domiciliary care, is a type of support delivered to people in their own homes. It allows older adults to remain independent while receiving help with personal care, medication, meals, mobility, and companionship.
There are different types of home care, including:
- Visiting care — Carers visit daily or a few times a week to help with tasks.
- 24 hour care at home — Also known as “live in care”, a care service is on hand around the clock, without the need for a care home.
- Short term respite care — Temporary care to give family members a break or support recovery after illness or surgery
Looking for an adult care home alternative? Live in care offers the safety and reassurance of 24-hour care at home, without the upheaval of moving into a residential setting.
Understanding Live In Care
Live in care is an increasingly popular option for families looking for personalised, full-time support at home. With over 8,000 people searching for it monthly in the UK, it’s clear many families are looking for a way to keep their loved ones safe, happy and independent.
Radfield Home Care’s live in care is:
- Managed locally by one of our 34 offices
- Backed by 40+ years of care expertise
- Delivered by well-paid, highly trained Care Professionals
- Matched carefully to suit personality and lifestyle
- Supported by tailored lifestyle packages
Whether your parent is living with dementia, recovering from a stroke, or simply needs a helping hand, live in care is flexible and designed around their needs.
How to talk about care without causing conflict
Talking about care is as much about how you say things as what you say. Here’s how to approach the conversation constructively:
- Pick your moment — A quiet, unhurried time when you’re both calm.
- Focus on support — Avoid saying “you can’t cope”. Try: “What would make your life easier?”
- Ask open questions — Let them express how they’re feeling. It helps them feel heard.
- Avoid distractions — Turn off the TV and put phones away.
- Keep control with them — Ask: “Would you like to help choose the person who supports you?”
Psychology Tips: Helping Parents Feel the Idea Was Theirs
One of the most effective ways to introduce care is to help your parent feel it was their own idea. Here’s how:
- Start by noticing issues, rather than telling them what’s wrong. “I noticed the bins were still out, is everything okay?”
- Ask for their input on a problem. “What would you do if you started finding stairs more difficult?”
- Offer small trial steps: “Would you like to have someone pop in a couple of times a week to see how it feels?”
- Praise independence, not dependency: “I just want you to keep enjoying the things you love — and this might help.”
By helping your parent maintain a sense of control and ownership, they’ll be more likely to view care as a way to enhance their life, not restrict it.
Feeling overwhelmed? You’re not the only one
Balancing work, children, and caring for elderly parents can leave you emotionally and physically exhausted. Guilt is common — especially if you’re thinking about handing some care over to someone else.
But high-quality home care doesn’t mean stepping back. It means stepping into a more supportive, sustainable role.
Christina from Bexhill: “As a family we are just grateful to feel reassured that she is being well cared for…”
You’re still there for your parent. You’re just not doing it alone.
When do I need Power of Attorney?
You should consider setting up a Power of Attorney if your parent is still mentally capable of making decisions, but may not be in future. This legal arrangement allows someone to act on their behalf in areas such as health, welfare, or finances.
Getting it sorted early avoids stressful situations later. Learn more:
🔗 GOV.UK – Power of Attorney
Why families choose Radfield Home Care
Radfield Home Care isn’t just another care agency. We’re a family-founded, expert-led provider with decades of experience and a track record of quality care. Here’s what makes us different:
- 24/7 local support, not a central call centre
- Live in care and visiting care managed by your nearest office
- Carefully matched Care Professionals
- Over 40 years of care heritage
- Flexible care and lifestyle packages built around the individual
Jill from Peterborough: “I read the reviews but particularly liked that they were local… Dad was impressed and happy so agreed to go ahead.”
Whether you need short-term respite care, help for a parent living alone, or full-time 24-hour care at home, we’re here to help.
Speak to your local Radfield care team today
Every family is different. Whether you’re just starting to think about care or need support now, we’re here for you. Even if you’re not ready to arrange care, Radfield Home Care is here to support you and your community. We can provide information about valuable community groups and initiatives that offer support and social spaces for older people.
To speak with your local care team, click here to locate your Local Radfield Office
Talking about care might be hard. But getting the right help doesn’t have to be.