Lifestyle
What makes an enjoyable, safe and comfortable retirement?
Is it time to hang up the car keys?
Giving up driving is one of the most significant milestones in an older person’s life. It’s not surprising that so many are reluctant but as children worried for their safety and that of others on the road we may need to use our persuasive powers. Jill hasn’t been to Zumba for a few weeks. She’s […]
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Is a pet for your parent a good idea?
Written by Rebecca Lenton Pets are often recommended as good companions for the lonely or housebound. What are the pros and cons of pet ownership as your parents grow frailer, and how can you help them to ensure their pet continues to be cared for, however circumstances change? For parents who are lonely or socially […]
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Retiring to the country – 8 things to discuss before your parents decide
Written by Kathy Lawrence Moving to a rural area can be a cherished dream for retirement. But what are the pitfalls and how can they be avoided? We asked for advice from the team behind the “Over the Hill” campaign, which aims to tackle rural isolation. Retiring to green fields after a life in the […]
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Summer energy saving tips for your parents
There will forever be tips out there for saving energy in the winter months, but did you know there are steps you can take to prevent your parent’s energy bill soaring in the summer? Whether your parents are turning up the air conditioning, using more water to run showers or using more electricity to power […]
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Heating guide for your parents and grandparents: how to stay warm and save money this winter
Updated October 2021 Britain’s elderly are hit the hardest by the cold at winter. In fact, according to Age UK, in winter an older person dies every seven minutes due to cold temperatures. It’s therefore crucial that their homes are a safe temperature. But for many older people on a limited budget the cost of […]
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Making homes safe from carbon monoxide poisoning
How dangerous is carbon monoxide (CO) and what can you do to help protect against a leak of this deadly gas? Expert lawyer Gavin Evans of Simpson Millar Solicitors offers explanation and advice. In winter many of us are turning the central heating on more frequently and lighting gas fires, open fires and wood burners. […]
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Tips on avoiding electrical danger in the home
Electrical Safety First’s report, “A shock to the System”, found that more than a million people aged over 75 live in homes which fail the UK Government’s Decent Home Standard – with electrical safety a particular concern. Here, Phil Buckle, Director General of the charity, gives the details and offers some tips to help you […]
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Who are occupational therapists and how can they help our family?
Many of us meet occupational therapists for the first time when we have an older relative preparing to leave hospital. It’s not a job title that gives much away but occupational therapists are there to help people carry on their lives as well as possible. So who are they and what do they do? Occupational […]
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How to make downsizing a good experience
Sarah Macnaught, founder of London-based home organising company Rightsize, shares her hints and tips for helping your parent decide what to keep, what to sell and what to give away when it comes moving their belongings from the family home. When downsizing becomes a pressing need for a parent, due to illness, bereavement, finances or […]
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How to make household tasks easier for elderly parents
Andrew Atkinson, Managing Director of Mobility Smart – an online independent living store – advises us on tools to help your parent manage at home if they have strength or mobility issues. Here are a few simple gadgets to help make independent living that much easier. Cleaning For an older parent cleaning tasks can take […]
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