How to Introduce the Idea of Elder Home Share to Your Aging Parent in Dublin

If you’re searching for ways to support an elderly parent living alone in Dublin, this can be a sensitive and difficult conversation. You might worry about bringing up the idea of someone new moving into the home, or how to start the discussion without causing alarm. This guide helps you gently introduce the possibility of a home-share companion in a way that feels safe, respectful and empowering.

What is Home-Share and How Does It Work

A home-share is a thoughtful, flexible arrangement where an older person lives with a vetted companion who provides company, light support, and a reassuring presence in exchange for accommodation. At Elder Home Share we carefully match homeowners and companions, carry out reference checks and offer ongoing support to ensure a safe, respectful and stable arrangement. Elder Home Share

Step 1: Understand Your Parent’s Needs

Every family situation is different. Before talking, start by gently observing and reflecting:

• Is your parent feeling lonely or isolated?

• Are there nights when they worry or feel unsafe at home?

• Do they find some daily tasks more difficult now?

• Is there someone living nearby who could visit, and does your parent crave companionship or conversation?

Preparing your thoughts first helps you approach the topic calmly and with clarity. When you raise the idea, lead with empathy and listen. Sometimes parents may push back initially — that’s completely normal.

“Saoirse and her home-share companion David Bell (96) at RTÉ Studios sharing their story.”

Step 2: Plant the Seed Gently

Start with a casual conversation, without pressure. You might say things like:

“I’ve been thinking about how nice it would be to have someone around a few nights a week, someone friendly, just in case. There’s a service called Elder Home Share — they match older adults with vetted companions for light help and company. I wondered if that could be something we talk about.”

Frame it as an idea, not a demand. Keep it short. Then step back, give your parent space, let them think.

Step 3: Address Concerns Openly

When your parent asks questions or raises worries (it happens!), you can:

• Explain safety first — companions go through background and reference checks; you meet, you agree.

• Talk about independence — the match is flexible, and your parent remains in control, choosing who visits/live-in.

• Reassure privacy and boundaries — house rules are agreed from the start.

• Use real examples — share stories of other older adults who found companionship, peace of mind, and better connection through home-share.

It helps to acknowledge the emotion: “I know having someone new feels strange. I just care about safety and company.” click here to view companion profiles.

Step 4: Show Them Real Stories

Parents respond well when they see real, relatable stories. Share a testimonial from a homeowner whose life changed with a home-share companion. For example:

“One family told us the companion helped their parent feel less lonely, more confident, and comfortable at home in Dublin.”

Having visible reviews or case studies on your site builds trust and reassurance right away.

Step 5: Let Them Decide at Their Pace

This conversation might take place over a few days or weeks. That’s okay.

• Don’t push — revisit gently, maybe after a walk or shared coffee.

• Offer to visit their profile with them or attend a meeting together.

• Let them meet potential companions informally, chat, see if it feels right.

Choice and agency are important. Parents need time to warm up to a new idea.

Why It Matters for Dublin Families

In Dublin, many older adults live alone in apartments or quiet suburbs, and adult children are often busy themselves or living outside the city. Introducing a home-share companion is a gentle, affordable, caring way to provide support, peace of mind and connection — so your parent stays safe, calm and energized in their own home.

Need Help? We’re Here

If you’d like to talk through this with someone, we’re here to help. Reach out to Elder Home Share, and we can guide you through the process — matching, vetting, and supporting every step of the way. FAQ

'Elder Home Share was recommended to us from a few people. It proved to be a complete game changer for us as a family, From the very first contact with Saoirse she acted in a friendly and professional manner. We matched quickly with Rosa who became invaluable in our late Mothers care. Our lives changed for the better because of Elder Share. We can highly recommend Elder Home Share and wish them the very best for the future.

It is such a great idea for everybody involved.' Thank you, Grainne