Celebrating Lilian on International Day of Older Persons

Today, on the International Day of Older Persons, we take a moment to celebrate older people and the incredible lives they have lived.

One of those people is Lilian Douse, who will be turning 84 this November. Her daughter, Elaine Flynn, who works with us at PROCare (our parent company), supports her every day and knows just how important her home is to her wellbeing.

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Elaine's Mum Lilian

Elaine's Mum, Lilian

Lilian has lived in the same house for decades. First rented by her mother-in-law during the war, it was later purchased by Lilian herself. It’s where Elaine and her younger sister were born, and it’s filled with memories and connections that mean the world to her. For Lilian, leaving isn’t an option. She loves her neighbourhood, her bingo nights, the Women’s Institute, and everything that makes life feel familiar and secure.

Of course, the house has its challenges. The stairs are narrow and dark, and while a stairlift has been a useful support, it takes up space and can be awkward for others in the house. Elaine hopes that one day her mum might find a retirement or extra care home close by that she’d enjoy—but for now, Lilian is determined to stay where she is. As Elaine says, “More accessible homes would be helpful in supporting the older people in our lives.”

Elaine with her mum, Lilian

Making Home Safer with Our Grab Rails

In the meantime, we’ve helped make Lilian’s home safer with our Invisible Creations grab rails. Elaine chose rails for key areas like doors, steps, and entrance points, and they’ve made moving around easier and safer. Our rails are designed to be discreet, stylish, and blend seamlessly into a home - showing that small changes can make a huge difference in helping older people stay independent and confident in their own homes.

If you want to give your loved ones the same peace of mind, explore our range of grab rails today. They’re practical, attractive, and built with care by a team who truly understands what makes a home safe and welcoming.

Elaine's Mum Lilian with her new grab rails

View our grab rails

The Bigger Picture

The reality is that the UK has a growing ageing population, yet not enough accessible homes or adaptable housing options to keep people close to their communities and loved ones. Too many older people are left with difficult choices because so few homes truly meet their needs.

But stories like Lilian’s show us what’s possible. With thoughtful, inclusive design and simple adaptations like our grab rails, we can help more people stay safe, comfortable, and independent for longer.

This International Day of Older Persons, we celebrate Lilian, her family, and all the older people who deserve to live well in homes filled with warmth, memories, and independence.