Who to contact when worried about an elderly person: A guide for families and caregivers

As a leading provider of retirement communities, at The ExtraCare Charitable Trust we understand the unique needs of elderly individuals and their families. Therefore, in this guide, we’ll outline the steps you should take and the right people to contact if you’re concerned about the wellbeing of an older family member, friend or even yourself.

1. Contact their GP

If you’re worried about the person’s health, whether they’re showing signs of illness, a sudden decline in mobility, or mental confusion, it’s essential to start with their General Practitioner (GP). GPs are the first point of contact for any health concerns and can provide a thorough assessment of your loved one’s condition.

They can:

• Assess symptoms or changes in health.
• Prescribe medications or recommend treatment options.
• Refer them to specialists if needed (e.g for memory care, mobility issues, or chronic illnesses).
• Advise on next steps for ongoing support.

If your loved one doesn’t have a GP, you can help them register at a local practice.
Something worth noting: A key finding from our 2012-15 and 2015-18 research studies into healthy ageing for older people, saw a 46% reduction in routine and regular GP visits for ExtraCare residents since moving in.

2. Reach out to adult social services

In the UK, adult social services are responsible for ensuring that older people have access to the support they need to maintain a good quality of life. If your loved one is struggling, social services can assess their needs and coordinate the necessary care.

Adult social services can assist with:

• Home care services (e.g personal care and assistance with daily tasks).
• Home adaptations (e.g installing grab rails or ramps).
• Advice on the cost and financial assistance for elderly care.
• Supported housing options.

To contact adult social services, you can reach out directly to your local council who will carry out a needs assessment and recommend a tailored plan.

3. Consider the role of professional carers or care agencies

If your loved one requires regular help with daily activities but doesn’t need full-time care, hiring professional care or using a care agency could be a good option. Carers can assist with everything from personal care (bathing, dressing, etc.) to more complex needs (medication management and companionship) which will massively take the strain off yourself and the family.

There are two types of care available:

• Live-in Care: A professional carer stays with your loved one 24/7, offering companionship and help with daily tasks.
• Visiting Care: A carer visits your loved one at scheduled times to provide assistance.

You can find reputable home care agencies through services like the Care Quality Commission (CQC) or through personal recommendations.

4. Local charities and support organisations

There are numerous UK charities dedicated to helping elderly individuals and supporting their families. These organisations often offer free advice, emotional support, and practical services that can make a world of difference.

Some key charities to contact include:

• Age UK: Provides information and advice on everything from health and social care to finances and legal matters. Age UK also offers local services like befriending and day care for individuals.
• Alzheimer’s Society: If you’re concerned about memory loss or symptoms of dementia, this charity provides invaluable resources, advice, and support groups for both individuals, carers and for the families.
• Carers UK: Offers guidance and support for family carers who are looking after elderly relatives.
• The ExtraCare Charitable Trust: Provides a level of care within our retirement villages, befriending schemes, and on-site Dementia and Wellbeing Advisors. It’s important to note though, that our retirement villages are still independent living.

Many of these organisations have helplines or local branches, and they can be a vital resource for families seeking assistance.

5. Contact a retirement village or sheltered housing provider

If you’re worried that your loved one may not be safe in their current living situation, are concerned about their social isolation, or struggling with the responsibility yourself, a retirement village could be a viable solution.

These communities offer a supportive and secure environment for those in their later years, providing a range of services including:

• Tailored care packages for those with lower levels of health needs.
• Emergency call systems and 24-hour support to ensure safety and wellbeing.
• Social activities and community engagement to combat loneliness and provide companionship.

At ExtraCare, we provide modern, comfortable, and well-equipped apartments where residents can live independently while still having access to support and care when they need it. If you’re concerned about an elderly family member, exploring a possible move to a retirement village could be a proactive step in ensuring their safety and happiness.

In this video, ExtraCare residents tell us how moving into a retirement village had a positive impact on their families…