If you’re looking for support for an older parent, a partner or yourself in Cornwall, this guide covers simple ways to stay well and independent at home, and who to contact for local help. It’s written by our team at Bluebird Care Mid and West Cornwall, based in Truro.
Why does support for older people in Cornwall matter?
Cornwall’s population is getting older. Between 2011 and 2021, the number of people aged 65 and over rose by almost 26%. Many people are also living with more than one health condition. Around one in five people aged 75 to 79 live with five or more long-term conditions.
That might sound like a lot. But it also tells a positive story. More people are living longer, and many want to spend those years in the homes and communities they love. With a little planning and the right support at the right time, that is very achievable.
How can older people stay independent at home?
Here are six simple steps that can make a real difference.
1. Talk about the future before you need to
Conversations about getting older can feel awkward, so many families put them off until something happens. Talking early, over a cup of tea rather than in a crisis, takes the pressure off.
Useful things to talk about:
- What matters most to them about staying at home
- What they’re finding harder than they used to
- Who they’d like involved if they need more help
- Where important documents are kept
There’s no need to cover everything at once. Starting the conversation is the most important part.
2. Keep on top of health
Small, regular check-ins can stop little problems becoming big ones.
- Ask the GP or a local pharmacist for a medication review, especially if someone takes several medicines.
- Keep up to date with eye, hearing and dental checks. Changes in sight or hearing can affect confidence and safety.
- Ask the GP surgery about seasonal vaccinations.
3. Make home a little safer
Most homes can be made safer with a few easy changes:
- Good lighting on stairs and in hallways, with night lights for trips to the bathroom
- Removing loose rugs and trailing cables
- Grab rails in the bathroom and by the front door
- Keeping everyday items within easy reach
If someone is struggling with stairs, bathing or getting in and out of a chair, Cornwall Council can carry out an assessment to see what support or equipment might help.
4. Stay connected
Living in a beautiful rural or coastal spot is one of the joys of Cornwall. It can also mean living further from friends, family and services. Staying connected is just as important for wellbeing as physical health.
- Look for local clubs, lunch groups, choirs, walking groups or church and chapel activities.
- Age UK Cornwall & The Isles of Scilly offers a befriending service, with face-to-face and telephone visits.
- Regular phone or video calls with family can make a big difference. Family or friends can help set these up if that’s useful.
You can find more ideas on our Community groups and activities page.
5. Look after the person doing the caring
Many older people in Cornwall are supported by a partner, son, daughter or friend. If that’s you, looking after yourself isn’t selfish. It’s what helps you keep going.
Unpaid carers are entitled to a carers assessment, which looks at the support you need to keep caring and to look after yourself. Cornwall Carers Service offers free support, including advice, emotional support, training and access to grants.
6. Accept a little help early
Home care doesn’t have to mean giving up independence. Often it’s the opposite. A short visit from one of our care assistants to help with meals, medication or getting ready for the day can make it easier to keep doing the things you enjoy.
The earlier support starts, the more choice people usually have about how and where they live.
Staying at home isn’t just about care. It’s about keeping your routines, your garden, your neighbours and your independence. Our job is to help people keep hold of the things that matter to them.
- The Bluebird Care Mid & West Cornwall team
Where can older people get support in Cornwall?
- Cornwall Council Adult Care and Support: 0300 1234 131, or request help online at cornwall.gov.uk
- Age UK Cornwall & The Isles of Scilly: 01872 266383. Free, confidential information and advice for older people, families and carers
- Cornwall Carers Service: 01736 756655. Free support for unpaid carers
- Your GP surgery or local pharmacy: for health questions and medication reviews
Frequently asked questions
Who do I contact for help for an elderly parent in Cornwall?
Start with Cornwall Council’s Adult Care and Support team on 0300 1234 131, or request help online. Age UK Cornwall & The Isles of Scilly can also give free, confidential advice on 01872 266383.
Can I get support as an unpaid carer?
Yes. Unpaid carers can ask for a carers assessment, which looks at the support you need to keep caring and look after your own wellbeing.
Does help at home mean losing independence?
Not at all. The right support at home often helps people keep doing the things they enjoy, for longer.
We’re here if you’d like to talk
This is the first post on our new blog. Each month, we’ll share advice, stories and local information for families across Mid and West Cornwall.
If you’re starting to think about support for yourself or someone you love, our team in Truro is always happy to have a friendly chat. We support people across St Austell, Truro, Newquay, Falmouth, Penzance, St Ives, The Lizard, Land's End, Camborne, Redruth, Hayle, Helston and the villages in between. There’s no pressure and no obligation. Sometimes it just helps to talk things through with someone who knows the area.
Call us on 01872 276006, email cornwallmid@bluebirdcare.co.uk, or get in touch through our contact page.
It’s good to be home.
Helpful links to our local insights pages