Families across Northern Ireland now have a new way to support elderly loved ones living
alone, with Elder Home Share offering a trusted home-sharing solution.

Elder Home Share was founded by Saoirse Sheridan, inspired by her close bond with her
grandmother and her own experience struggling to find affordable accommodation as a mature student.

With increasing numbers of older people choosing to remain in their own homes, concerns
around loneliness, safety and day-to-day support continues to be a worry for family members.

Data from the Executive Office’s 2023/24 Wellbeing Report revealed that around 80,000
older people in Northern Ireland are living alone and adults, aged 75+ are significantly more likely to experience loneliness than any other age group.

Elder Home Share offers a simple, but powerful support system, carefully matching older
homeowners with vetted live-in companions, who typically offer a few hours of support per week, including help with shopping, light housework and simply being there, particularly overnight.

The service focuses on companionship and support, helping elderly adults remain in their
familiar surroundings whilst giving families peace of mind.

Across Northern Ireland, more families are actively seeking alternatives to residential care,
particularly for parents who are still independent but increasingly isolated.

The home sharing concept is a practical, cost-effective option that bridges the gap between
living alone and requiring full-time care. By introducing a trusted presence into the home, it helps reduce loneliness and allows the elderly person to maintain a daily routine.

Founder of Elder Home Share NI, Saoirse Sheridan explains: “Our mission is simple, to support older people to live independently at home, while offering families reassurance that someone is there.

“It’s about connection, trust and improving their quality of life. We have proudly supported families for over 10 years now, bringing safety, stability and company to older adults across Ireland.

“We’re excited to now extend our services to Belfast.”

Sharing his experience, Emmet O’Donnell, whose 83-year-old mother Cathy was living alone in Co. Galway, said the evenings had become increasingly quiet and isolating.

Seeking companionship for his mum, Emmet turned to Elder Home Share, where she was
matched with Chang, a visiting professor from China in her 40s who was looking to integrate into a home environment.

“What followed was far more than practical support,” he said.

“She went above and beyond. She had a real depth of kindness and a great sense of humour.  Her presence was always light and friendly, and you could tell she genuinely enjoyed living with my mum.

“It gave us great comfort knowing someone was there, but more than that, she lifted the whole home and ignited a real spark in Mum. She brought life back into the house.”

The experience also highlighted the unique nature of home-sharing.

“It’s important to express that this isn’t a carer role, it’s about support with light duties at home and companionship.

“Saoirse was excellent at matching us with the right person. I put my full trust in her, and she got it exactly right.”

What began as a practical solution has since grown into something much more meaningful.

“We’ve stayed in touch with Chang and now consider her as a friend. We’re planning to meet her family when they visit Ireland this year.

“It was a life-enriching experience, and the process was smooth and reassuring. I would encourage other families to explore it.”

Elder Home Share has been successfully matching companions with older homeowners across Ireland for more than 10 years, with a strong focus on trust, compatibility and a human-centred approach.

Each arrangement includes:
● Access for families to interview potential candidates and find who they feel is the best fit
for their loved one
● Reference checks
● A trial live-in period

Ongoing support and regular check-ins:

The result is a personal service that benefits both the older person and their family, often
creating lasting bonds that go far beyond the home sharing arrangement.

Families in Northern Ireland who are concerned about an elderly parent living alone are
encouraged to get in touch to learn more about how home-sharing could work for them.

To enquire or find out more, visit: www.elderhomeshare.co.uk