Getting an older parent ready
Published
Most of it is free and can be done in one visit. Sign them up to the Priority Services Register, write their numbers and medicines on paper, and check they have a torch, a radio and something warm.
Free, on your next visit
The Priority Services Register. Energy and water companies keep it so they know who might need extra help in a power cut or a water outage. Check if they can join on the Priority Services Register site. In Northern Ireland, it’s their supplier’s Customer Care Register. In the government’s 2026 survey, 44% of adults had heard of it, so it’s worth a mention.
A paper list. Write down the numbers that matter, on paper, somewhere they’ll find it:
- the power cut number, 105 (03457 643643 in Northern Ireland)
- your number, and a neighbour’s
- their GP surgery and pharmacy
- the names of the medicines they take
For any questions about their medicines, their pharmacist or GP is the person to ask.
Repeat prescriptions. Remind them to order a repeat prescription 5 working days before they need it, so they’re never down to the last few.
The torch and the shut-offs. Check they know where the torch is, and how to turn off the water, gas and electricity. 59% of adults said they knew how, so it’s a common gap.
A neighbour’s number. 48% of adults said they have a neighbour who might need extra support. Swapping numbers is the simplest help there is.
Cheap things worth having
- A head torch. Easier than a hand torch, because it leaves both hands free. Our pick is the Energizer Vision HD+ head torch (Ad).
- A simple FM radio. One with proper buttons, on AA batteries. Our budget pick is the PRUNUS J-166 (Ad).
- Something warm. A big fleece throw, like the Bedsure sherpa throw (Ad).
- A wallet for papers. Copies of documents and the paper list, in one zip wallet (Ad).
If you’re stuck for a Christmas present, a radio and a torch are more use than another scarf.
More on the light and power, warmth and first aid and medicines kit pages.
Leave the list with them
Print the checklist and leave it on the fridge. Tick off what’s done together, and they’ll know what’s left.