Let’s talk about something we don’t hear about enough: pre-care. It’s a concept that’s simple but revolutionary when it comes to aging – stepping in to provide support before someone needs traditional care services. It’s all about empowering older adults to live independently, stay connected, and maintain their dignity. Think of it as the early nudge that keeps life on track, rather than the big intervention when things go off the rails. It’s central to what Good Life Sorted stands for – happy and healthy independent aging.
What Is pre-care?
Pre-care is the bridge between total independence and the kind of care associated with aging, like medical support or residential care. It’s not about nurses or uniforms; it’s about giving older adults a helping hand with everyday things like grocery shopping, tidying up, or even just having someone to chat with over a cup of tea.
The beauty of pre-care is how adaptable it is. Some people need a little practical help, others crave companionship, and many need both. It’s not a one-size-fits-all approach, which is what makes it so powerful.
Why does pre-care matter?
A lot of older adults find themselves in a tough spot. They’re not ready – or let’s be honest, willing – for traditional care, but they could use some extra support to keep things ticking over, an potentially stopping them from entering the stage where they do need that extra help. The reality is, asking for help can be hard, especially for those who’ve spent their lives being independent.
This is where pre-care shines. It doesn’t feel intrusive. Helpers aren’t there to take over; they’re there to empower. Whether it’s lending a hand with errands or being someone to share a laugh with, pre-care is about making life easier and more fulfilling.
It’s not just about the practical stuff either. Loneliness is a massive issue for older adults. Studies have shown that isolation can have the same impact on health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Pre-care tackles this head-on by providing regular, reliable human connection. Something that’s not just a nice to have but can in fact be life changing.
The big benefits of pre-care
Let’s break down why pre-care is such a game-changer:
1. Better health
Older adults with unmet needs are more likely to experience declining health. But for those receiving pre-care, the picture is very different. They’re healthier, happier, and less likely to end up needing medical interventions.
2. Reduced loneliness
Loneliness isn’t just sad, it’s a public health issue. Pre-care builds relationships that reduce isolation and improve mental wellbeing. 65% of our customers said having a Helper improved their depression.
3. Empowering independence
Pre-care isn’t about doing things for people; it’s about helping them do things with a little support. This approach restores autonomy, giving older adults the confidence to stay in charge of their lives. When we asked our customers whether having the weekly routine of activities and responsibilities was important to them, 82% agreed that it was.
4. Easing the pressure on families
Families – especially those in the “sandwich generation” juggling kids and aging parents – feel the strain. Pre-care provides peace of mind, knowing their loved ones are supported without having to manage everything themselves.
Why Now?
The need for pre-care has never been greater. By 2035, the number of people aged 65+ needing help with daily activities is expected to rise by 67%. The NHS is already stretched, with 1 in 3 staff providing unpaid care on top of their jobs. Meanwhile, unpaid carers across the UK are contributing a staggering £445 million to the economy every single day.
Pre-care offers a solution that not only supports older adults but also relieves pressure on families, communities, and the healthcare system. It’s a win-win-win.
Pre-care in action
So, what does pre-care look like in real life? Imagine this:
Barbara is 78, lives alone, and finds it hard to get out as much as she used to. She’s proud of her independence and doesn’t want “care,” but she could use a hand. Her Helper, Sarah, pops by twice a week. Sometimes they tackle practical things, like grocery shopping or decluttering the house. Other times, they just have a chat and share a laugh.
Barbara says Sarah’s visits are the highlight of her week. “She makes me feel like myself again,” Barbara shares. “She’s not here to look after me; she’s here to help me keep doing the things I love.”
And that’s the magic of pre-care – it doesn’t take over; it lifts up.
The future of pre-care
Looking ahead, looking at pre-care could completely transform how we think about aging. It shifts the focus from “fixing problems” to “preventing them.” It’s a proactive, compassionate approach that benefits everyone – older adults, families, communities, and even the economy.
But to make pre-care the norm, we need to invest in it. Governments, businesses, and communities all have a role to play in scaling this model. The potential is huge, and the payoff is worth it: healthier people, stronger connections, and a system that works for everyone.
A call to action
If we want to change the way we age, pre-care is the way forward. It’s about recognising that small, early interventions can have a massive impact. It’s about seeing the person, not the problem. And most importantly, it’s about creating a society where everyone, no matter their age, can live with dignity, connection, and independence.
Pre-care isn’t just a solution. We prefer to think of it as a movement. Let’s make it happen.
