20/01/2026
You ring mum during the week and she sounds just like herself.
She chats about the weather, tells you she is fine and asks how work is going. Then you visit at the weekend and notice the milk is out of date, the post is still unopened and she seems tired after just a short conversation.
It can feel confusing and even a bit unsettling.
This happens more often than people realise. Phone calls are familiar and brief, which makes them easier to manage. Many older people can draw on well practised phrases and concentrate their energy for a few minutes.
Being together in person is different.
Over time you start to notice routines, energy levels and small changes that simply do not come across on the phone.
It does not mean they are pretending or hiding anything. Often it means they are working hard to stay independent in the ways they know how. Trusting what you notice in person is important, and it is often what prompts families to start gentle conversations about extra support.
If this feels familiar and you are not sure what the next step is, our team in Canary Wharf is happy to talk things through on 0203 713 3161 or you can find out more about how support at home can provide care and reassurance on our website homeinstead.co.uk/canary-wharf.
