My mam passed away last year after a stroke and subsequent fall breaking her hip which she sadly couldn't recover from. She was 79 at the time and my dad was left at 82 with no real idea of where to turn to for support as he dealt with losing his wife of almost 60 years and the loneliness and sense of loss that he experienced.

A friend told me to contact Age UK whose help and support for my dad was outstanding, from empathetic home visits to discuss bereavement counselling to help with financial matters, disability benefits and care options.

I would recommend them to anyone in a similar situation who have elderly parents or relatives in need of help or advice.