How to talk to your mum or dad about getting help
Most parents say no to "care". A lot of them say yes to "someone to do the gutters". Start with the house, not with them.
Start with a job, not a worry
"You're getting older and I'm worried" invites an argument. "The hedge is getting away from you, shall we get someone in?" invites a yes. Practical help is easier to accept because it's about the house, not about them. Pick the job they already moan about.
Make it their decision
Ask who they'd want. They may already know someone: the neighbour's grandson, the window cleaner, a friend's cleaner. Let them choose the person and the day. With Wellknown, they can even run it themselves on their own account, with you invited to see.
Use the safety argument carefully
Many older people are more worried about strangers at the door than about the garden. A doorstep password and a fridge card with faces on it can be the thing that makes them feel more in control, not less.
Be honest about money
If they are over State Pension age and struggle with day-to-day things, they may be entitled to Attendance Allowance: £76.70 or £114.60 a week, not means-tested. Framing help as "using money you're entitled to" lands better than "we'll pay".
Try it for a month
"Let's try it until Christmas" is much easier to agree to than "from now on". Most people keep a good helper once they have one.
Ask them, not about them
Their home, their front door, their call. We ask you to confirm your parent knows about and is happy with any helper set up through Wellknown, and that they agree to the family seeing visit notes.
When it's more than help around the house
If they need help washing, dressing, eating or with medication, that is personal care. Talk to their GP and ask the council for a free needs assessment. Practical help can still sit alongside it.