Ahmad Latif (88) from Southfields, London has been Homesharing for more than one year, enabling him to live independently, thrive in his own home, and create a unique intergenerational friendship. Ahmad Homeshares with Pratibha Dudani (33) – the two were matched by London-based Community Interest Company (CIC), Share and Care Homeshare, the largest Homeshare organisation in the UK.
Tanya Latif, Ahmad’s daughter said, “When my Mum passed away, Dad was on his own in the house. Moving into a care home or having a live-in carer just wasn’t the right choice for my Dad; I thought there must be an option in between – and there was – Homeshare.”
Homeshare is a community-based living experience that matches older people who require – and would benefit from – a little help to live independently in their own home, with people who are looking for an affordable home to live in and can provide up to 15 hours of practical help, support and companionship each week in exchange for the low-cost accommodation.
Ahmad and Pratibha share a close bond, and over the past year they have developed a strong, life-long friendship which has resulted in many special memories. Pratibha has become a valued member of the family; the practical support and companionship she gives have helped to support Ahmad to remain living independently in his own home. Pratibha and Tanya have also built a close connection, with Prathibha viewing Tanya as her second mum.
Pratibha, who works full-time in fintech, feels that she has found the perfect living arrangement. “Being part of the family and having a sense of belonging has transformed how I feel about living in London. Homeshare has brought many moments of joy,” explains Pratibha.
The vigorous vetting procedure and interview process undertaken by Share and Care Homeshare ensured that Ahmad was matched with a younger person with similar interests. Ahmad and Pratibha enjoy watching football together, going for walks and sitting down having a chat. Pratibha also regularly cooks meals for Ahmad which they share together, and even helps with the cleaning and laundry.
Ahmad has been far happier since Homesharing. As Tanya explains, “When Dad was alone, I was worried about him but Homeshare has provided reassurance, peace-of-mind and security. Since Pratibha has moved in it all feels more relaxed for everyone; Pratibha fits in perfectly as part of the family. She supports Dad and, in turn, she has a base to call home from which she can also explore London. Homeshare is positive all round.”
Homeshare provides a feeling of value and purpose across the generations. It is a circle of support for both older and younger people, with both bringing important attributes to the arrangement.
Share and Care Homeshare would like to see an increase in awareness of Homeshare as an option for support, and greater recognition of the positive impact it has on our ageing population. “Homeshares in London are on the rise because they are a low cost, alternative, community-based living experience that is making life better for older people. Having the reassurance, overnight presence and companionship of a younger person, together with an extra pair of hands for help with daily tasks such as shopping or cooking a nutritious meal,
makes a significant difference to older people and, indeed, for their loved ones,” states Caroline Cooke, founder, Share and Care Homeshare.
Ahmad and Pratibha pay Share and Care Homeshare just £150 each per month for the arrangement – a fee that is considerably cheaper for Pratibha than if she was paying rent, and equally, for Ahmad, significantly cheaper than live-in or residential care.
