Finding Support for Elderly Parents in Ireland: How Home-Share Fights Loneliness and Helps Older Adults Stay Connected

Loneliness is often described as a silent epidemic among older adults in Ireland. As people age, many face reduced mobility, the loss of loved ones, and fewer chances for daily social interaction. For families — especially adult children in their 50s and 60s — finding the right support for an elderly parent living alone can feel overwhelming.

Between work, family responsibilities and distance, many people in Dublin and across the country are searching for a solution that offers not just practical help, but real companionship and emotional support.

One option gaining attention in Ireland is intergenerational home-share — a gentle, relationship-based approach that helps older adults feel safer, happier, and less alone at home.

What Is Intergenerational Living?

Intergenerational living simply means bringing two generations together under one roof. At Elder Home Share, this takes the form of a younger adult living with an older person in exchange for providing companionship, reassurance, and light support.

This concept has existed for centuries, and is still very common in parts of Asia and Southern Europe. In Ireland, it is becoming increasingly relevant as more older adults express a strong desire to remain at home — and families seek safe, affordable, human-centred alternatives to traditional care.

Why Intergenerational Living Supports Older Adults

The benefits for older people are meaningful and immediate:

✔ Daily companionship

Someone to chat to, watch TV with, or share meals.

✔ Reduced loneliness

Regular connection helps restore confidence and emotional wellbeing.

✔ Light household help

A companion can assist with simple tasks and help maintain routines.

✔ Evening and night-time reassurance

For families, knowing someone is at home overnight brings huge peace of mind.

✔ A sense of purpose and connection

Older adults feel valued and included when they have someone around.

Maria Burke shared:

“My mam has had a homeshare companion for a few months now and it has been amazing. The peace of mind knowing someone is in the house, especially at night, is fantastic. They get on so well — laughing, watching films — and the atmosphere in the house is great.”

This is the heart of home-share: companionship and presence.

Benefits for Younger Companions Too

Younger adults also gain:

• Affordable accommodation

• A stable home environment

• The chance to learn from an older generation

• A meaningful relationship based on respect

These matches often develop into genuine friendships.

“Sharing a cup of tea and companionship at home.”

Why Families Are Searching for New Types of Elder Support

When looking for help for elderly parents, families often consider:

• Home care, which is helpful but task-focused

• Day centers, which are social but limited to a few hours

• Assisted living, which may feel impersonal

• Nursing homes, often explored only when needs increase significantly

Many older adults want to remain at home but still need company, reassurance, and daily presence. Home-share bridges this gap beautifully.

Connection Is Key: Combating Loneliness in Ireland

According to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA), 1 in 3 older adults experiences loneliness.

Home-share doesn’t just support practical needs — it rebuilds connection, purpose and belonging.

It works alongside existing networks:

• Family

• Neighbours

• Community groups

• Befriending services such as Alone

• Healthcare teams

Intergenerational living strengthens this support circle rather than replacing it.

Supporting Elderly Parents at Home

Helping older adults remain at home is about more than safety — it’s about ensuring they live fulfilled, connected, empowered lives.

Intergenerational living offers:

• Social connection

• Companionship

• Reassurance

• Support with day-to-day routines

• A warm presence in the home

It’s a practical, caring, and cost-effective option for families across Ireland.

Learn More or Register for a Home-Share Companion

If you would like to speak with us about support for your elderly parent — or explore companion profiles — we’re here to help.

📞 Call Saoirse at 087 138 5628📝 Register to be matched with a companion here

Home-share may be the gentle, human-centered solution your family has been searching for.