What Stage Are You At?

A simple way to spot where a little extra help could make everyday life easier

Golden Transitionsgoldentransitions.co.uk

As parents or relatives get older, it isn't always obvious when they need more support. Often there isn't one big problem. Instead, everyday jobs gradually become harder, take longer or simply don't get done. Use this checklist to start a conversation and identify where some practical help might make life easier, safer and more manageable. Tick the box that best describes things at the moment.

Everyday area	Managing well	A little help would be useful	We need to explore this
Cleaning & housework Vacuuming, bathrooms, changing bedding and general cleaning
Laundry & ironing Washing, drying, ironing and changing clothes or bedding
Shopping Getting to the shops, carrying shopping or ordering groceries
Meals & cooking Preparing meals, using the kitchen safely or arranging meal deliveries
Bins & recycling Moving bins, putting them out and bringing them back
Gardening Mowing, pruning, general maintenance and keeping paths clear
Small household jobs Changing bulbs, minor repairs, moving things or arranging tradespeople
Getting around the home Stairs, getting in and out of chairs, reaching things or carrying items
Home safety Lighting, trip hazards, smoke alarms, locks, handrails and general security
Everyday equipment Simple aids or equipment that could make daily tasks easier
Hair & personal grooming Getting to appointments or arranging services at home
Foot & nail care Managing routine foot care or finding appropriate professional support
Getting out & about Walking, transport, appointments, shopping and social activities
Social contact & companionship Regular contact with friends, family or other people
Personal care Washing, dressing, eating, using the toilet or other personal activities

What Next?

You don't need to solve everything at once. Pick the two or three areas that would make the biggest difference.

What's becoming difficult?

Be specific. It may not be shopping itself that's difficult — it could simply be carrying heavy bags home.

What can they still comfortably do themselves?

The aim is to support independence, rather than automatically taking tasks away.

What small change might help?

Could equipment, a delivery service, cleaner, gardener, handyperson, family member or community service help?

Does this need practical help or care?

Cleaning, shopping and gardening are different from support with personal care. Understanding what is needed helps you look for the right service.

Who could provide the help?

Consider trusted recommendations, established local organisations, reputable businesses, community services and appropriately registered care providers where required.

What should we check before agreeing to anything?

Consider cost, references, insurance, appropriate checks or registration, exactly what is included, cancellation arrangements and who to contact if something goes wrong.

Your Three Priorities

Priority 1

Priority:

What would help?

Who will explore it?

Priority 2

Priority:

What would help?

Who will explore it?

Priority 3

Priority:

What would help?

Who will explore it?

A useful principle

Start with what's becoming difficult — not with an assumption that someone needs 'care'.

Sometimes a cleaner, grocery delivery, gardener, simple piece of equipment or a little companionship is all that's needed. At other times, the checklist may highlight that more structured support should be explored.