Care assessment for elderly parents?

Mrs_Money

My very elderly parents are isolated at home, managing everyday tasks with shopping help from family, but not going out or doing any social activities at all.
They don't seem to need personal care with washing or dressing, but the thing is it's the amount of things they have to do that I can see they need help with. Cleaning the house, cooking, hanging washing out etc.,
They are in their nineties and have no outside help from any external agencies and their GP seemed to be saying that they can't get help with anything other than washing/dressing/shopping - not sure he's right there.
I have suggested arranging a home care assessment - that was not received well! They are of the generation that viewed any "outsiders" coming into their home as an intrusion! I thought it would help to have a professional take on the situation and suggestions as to what could be offered, even if they decided against it in the end. One of them gets attendance allowance and both probably should, but again, my suggestion to arrange that for them was rebuffed. They have no income apart from State Pension, so may qualify for some free help- don't know.
I can't offer regular care of any kind as I am still working part time, I'm in my 60s and have a partner with severe health issues.
I know they don't seem to exist any more, but what my parents need is the old fashioned "home help" kind of person!
Anyone got any advice please? I feel we are probably working up to a crisis here...

KxMx

You'll probably get better advice if you post on the Over 50's Money Saving board

http://forums.moneysavingexpert.com/forumdisplay.php?s=&daysprune=&f=26

Generally speaking these days most local authorities won't pay for any help beyond personal/medical care.

Any thing such as a household cleaner is what the AA is for.

Maybe there is a cleaner out there in need of work and your parents would be helping them out? As a way to "sell it" rather than "you need someone to clean your house" etc.

pmlindyloo

If they only have their state pensions then they may be eligible for Pension Credit. If they were eligible for Guarantee Pension Credit then they would be automatically be entitled to help with housing costs and council tax support. Google to see if they are eligible.

It is extremely difficult to help parents when they do not like having other people in the house and see any benefits/help as 'relying on the state'.

It might help if you left a few leaflets around and let them read them in their own time rather than having conversations with them.

Sometimes suggestions from a third party is often received more easily. Have your parents got any friends/local vicar/similar who could gently suggest one or two ideas.

I like the suggestion of a neighbour/friend (preferably someone they already know)who could use the extra money and come in to help.

Realistically, until they ask for help you may not have much luck persuading them to apply for benefits or accept any help. Sadly it usually takes some kind of minor crisis for them to realise.

Good luck!