We’re Planning a Summer Holiday with the Children — But Who Will Look After Mum?

Going on Holiday When an Elderly Parent Needs Support: A Practical Guide for Families

Many families look forward to holidays, family celebrations, and time away throughout the year. However, when an ageing parent or elderly relative relies on regular support, planning a trip can suddenly become more complicated.

Questions often begin to arise: Can we leave Mum on her own for a week? What if Dad needs help while we’re away? Is temporary care available? And will they feel comfortable accepting support from someone new?

These concerns are completely understandable. Many family members provide more support than they realise, from shopping and meal preparation to medication reminders, companionship, and regular wellbeing checks.

The good news is that temporary care can often be arranged to bridge the gap while family members are away. Whether someone needs a daily check-in, help with meals, or more comprehensive support, there are flexible options available that can provide reassurance for everyone involved.

Why holidays can create additional challenges

Many older adults live independently and manage well day to day. However, they may still depend on family members for a range of practical tasks that have gradually become part of everyday life.

Often, relatives help without thinking about it. A quick visit to check everything is okay, collecting a prescription, helping with shopping, preparing meals, or simply providing company can all become routine.

When families go away, these small acts of support suddenly disappear. While some older adults cope perfectly well, others may struggle more than they are willing to admit.

Many older people are reluctant to say when they need help because they do not want to worry their families or feel like a burden.

Signs an older relative may benefit from temporary support

Even when someone appears independent, there may be areas where additional help would make life safer and more comfortable while family members are away.

Families often notice concerns such as forgetfulness, reduced mobility, difficulty preparing meals, or anxiety about being alone.

These concerns do not necessarily mean someone can no longer live independently. Often, a small amount of support is enough to provide reassurance and maintain normal routines.

Temporary care can be tailored to individual needs

One common misconception is that home care must involve long-term arrangements or daily ongoing support.

In reality, temporary care can be highly flexible and designed around the individual.

For relatively independent older adults, one or two visits a day may be sufficient. A carer might help with meals, wellbeing checks, medication reminders, or simply provide reassurance that everything is okay.

Others may benefit from more regular support throughout the day, particularly if mobility or health concerns make daily tasks more challenging.

The level of support can often be adjusted depending on circumstances, providing flexibility for both families and older adults.

When live-in care may be the better option

For some families, a few daily visits may not provide enough reassurance.

If an older person requires regular supervision, has complex care needs, or feels anxious about being alone, temporary live-in care may be worth considering.

A live-in carer stays in the home and provides ongoing support throughout the day. This can be particularly helpful during longer holidays or when family members are travelling abroad.

Many families find that live-in care offers the greatest peace of mind because support is available whenever it is needed.

Planning ahead makes everything easier

One of the best ways to reduce stress is to start planning care arrangements well before a holiday begins.

This gives families time to discuss options, arrange assessments, and ensure everyone feels comfortable with the support being provided.

Many older adults feel more confident when they have an opportunity to meet carers before support starts. Familiar faces can make a significant difference and help build trust before family members leave.

Conclusion

Taking a holiday should not have to mean worrying constantly about an elderly loved one at home.

With the right planning and support, many older adults can continue living safely and comfortably in familiar surroundings while family members enjoy a well-earned break.

Whether that involves a daily visit, several visits throughout the day, or temporary live-in care, short-term support can provide reassurance, maintain independence, and help families enjoy valuable time away with greater peace of mind.

— Ashbourne Healthcare Team