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Charity calls on Generation X to harness Homeshare for elderly relatives

by Kirsty Kirsty

It’s a common dilemma for many of us; how do you balance your older relatives desire to stay in their own home with their safety and wellbeing?

Homeshare Week 2024 shines a spotlight on one innovative solution for families across the UK. Homeshare matches older loved ones seeking companionship and assistance with individuals seeking affordable accommodation, creating mutually beneficial arrangements that enhance quality of life.

Despite the government’s £2.3 billion increase in social care funding for the 2023-24 financial year1, the demand for support continues to grow. Currently, over 420,000 older people are still waiting for care assessments2, and 131,000 vacancies remain unfilled in adult social care3. With approximately 3.6 million people in the UK providing unpaid care to elderly relatives – over 40% of whom report mental health challenges4 – families are increasingly feeling the strain. Homeshare offers a cost-effective, preventative solution that provides much-needed reassurance and support.

What is Homeshare?

Homeshare is an arrangement where older individuals, or householders, are matched with homesharers, usually younger people, who provide around 10 hours of practical support each week. This includes companionship and help with household tasks, such as shopping, cleaning, and preparing meals, delaying the need for costly formal care services.  As local authorities grapple with rising demand for social care, Homeshare offers a flexible solution to ease the burden.

A solution for Generation X

As many GenX adults balance work, family, and the responsibilities of caring for aging parents, Homeshare offers a solution that can provide peace of mind. Research indicates that over 1.3 million individuals in the UK are part of the ‘sandwich generation’, caring for both children and elderly parents5. Additionally, with 1.4 million older people in the UK often feeling lonely6, Homeshare not only alleviates loneliness but also fosters intergenerational relationships that benefit both householders and homesharers.

Joyce’s journey with Homeshare

For families like Joyce’s, the Homeshare model has been transformative. Referred to Homeshare Gloucestershire in 2019 by her GP’s social prescriber, Joyce initially sought extra reassurance alongside her existing care. Following the passing of her husband, Joyce has welcomed three different homesharers into her home, each becoming a close friend.

Now in her 90s, Joyce values the companionship of her current homesharer who provides support and friendship. Joyce’s family has found the Homeshare arrangement invaluable: “The support Mum has received from her homesharers has far exceeded our expectations for such a modest cost. It’s the little things, like unloading the washing machine or driving into town, that make a huge difference to her daily life. Knowing someone is there gives us such peace of mind.”

Homeshare has not only alleviated the practical burden for Joyce’s family but also added vibrancy into her home. “We’ve been fortunate to have had amazing homesharers. Even though some have moved on, they remain family friends who visit regularly. The companionship and care they’ve provided has been a real blessing.”

Why Homeshare is needed now more than ever

With a 9.2% increase in planned social care spending for 2024-251, local authorities are striving to expand their services. However, demand continues to outstrip supply7. While councils work to provide more long-term care and support, they still face significant challenges in meeting the needs of older adults.

Homeshare offers a flexible, cost-effective solution that alleviates pressure on formal care services, enabling families to explore alternatives that do not rely solely on overstretched public resources.

Homeshare Week 2024: Highlighting the key benefits

This Homeshare Week (October 6th-12th), Homeshare UK is encouraging families to explore how Homeshare could support their older relatives. The initiative offers numerous benefits:

  • Reducing loneliness – With 1.4 million older people feeling isolated, Homeshare helps foster connections.
  • Providing practical support – Homesharers assist with everyday tasks that significantly improve quality of life.
  • Offering affordable accommodation – Amid the rental crisis, Homeshare provides homesharers with affordable housing options.
  • Building intergenerational bonds – These matches promote friendships across generations.
  • Easing pressure on local services – Homeshare can reduce the demand for formal care services by offering essential support.
  • Reassuring families – Knowing a capable and trusted homesharer is nearby provides peace of mind.
  • Enhancing safety – The overnight presence helps both householders and homesharers feel secure.

As GenX adults increasingly shoulder the responsibility of caring for aging parents, innovative solutions like Homeshare are more vital than ever.

To find your local Homeshare provider or learn more about how Homeshare can support your family, visit Homeshare UK’s provider map.

Image from Pexels.com

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