Something has changed with Mum or Dad, and you don't know what to do next.
Tell us what is happening in plain words, and CareMap will show you the practical next steps, who to contact, and what to ask — for care at home and beyond.
Whether it's a parent, a partner, another relative, a friend, or yourself — start in the same place.
Free, no account needed. Your answers stay in your own browser.
Describe it in your own words
For example, "Dad is leaving hospital" or "Mum needs help washing".
What's happening with your parent right now?
Choose whichever is closest to your situation. We'll begin the Care Check with that already filled in — no scheme names to learn first.
- Mum or Dad isn't managing at homePractical first steps in Ireland when washing, dressing, meals or mobility at home are becoming too much.Start here
- Mum or Dad is coming home from hospitalHow discharge planning works in Ireland, what to ask the discharge team, and what to put in place before they come home.Start here
- Mum or Dad seems confused or forgetfulWhat to do first in Ireland when you notice memory loss, confusion or changed behaviour in an older relative.Start here
- I've become the one doing the caringCarer payments, breaks and practical supports in Ireland for family members taking on regular unpaid care.Start here
- The HSE hours aren't enoughHow to request a review of HSE home support hours in Ireland, and what other options exist while you wait.Start here
- We're considering a nursing homeHow the care needs assessment and Fair Deal financial assessment work in Ireland, and what to ask before deciding.Start here
- Mum or Dad keeps fallingWhat to do in Ireland after repeated falls or growing unsteadiness: who to contact, what an assessment looks at, and what often helps at home.Start here
- Home no longer feels safe for themWhat to do in Ireland when it no longer feels safe for someone to be at home alone, and how to explore more support before residential care.Start here
Or read about each situation first on our common situations pages.
How it works
- 1
Tell us what's happening
A short set of plain questions. Nothing medical, nothing intrusive, and you can stop at any point.
- 2
See what may be relevant
We match your answers to public schemes, community supports and local pathways — and show why each one appears.
- 3
Get a clear action plan
Who to contact first, what to have ready, what to ask, and a checklist you can tick off and print.
Our recommendations follow published rules, not a black box. We do not assess anyone, we do not diagnose, and we never promise eligibility — those decisions belong to the HSE, local authorities and the Department of Social Protection. How we work.
What we can help you navigate
Public schemes, community and voluntary services, and — clearly separated — private options where they are genuinely useful. We are never paid to rank factual guidance.
See all 14 support pathwaysNot sure where to begin?
The Care Check takes a few minutes. You'll get a plain-English plan you can print or share with family.
Start your Care Check