I'm in my 70s caring for my 104-year-old mum and companionship has been a life line.

More than 2.1 million unpaid carers in the UK are now aged 65 and over, according to Age UK's latest analysis – and for one Leicester woman in her 70s, caring for her 104-year-old mum is a reality she never expected.

Linda recently celebrated her mum Dorothy's remarkable 104th birthday – a milestone few families ever experience. Behind the celebrations is the everyday reality of supporting one of Britain's oldest generations while managing later life herself.

Linda says support from Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland has become "a lifeline", helping both her and Dorothy continue to enjoy life.

Each week, Dorothy meets her companion Sam at Wistow Garden Centre through the charity's service. The pair enjoy tea and scones in the café while spending the morning chatting and laughing together.

While Dorothy enjoys time with a trusted friend, Linda gains something just as valuable – the reassurance that her mum is happy, safe and well looked after, along with precious time to focus on her own wellbeing.

The friendship began after Linda contacted Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland to help her mum apply for a Blue Badge. During the conversation, she learned about the charity's companionship service, which carefully matches older people with companions based on shared interests and personalities.

What began as practical support has grown into a genuine friendship.

"Sam isn't just someone who visits Mum," said Linda. "She's become a real friend.

"Mum absolutely lights up when she knows Sam is coming. They laugh together, chat and enjoy their trips out. It's given Mum something to look forward to every week."

The weekly outings with Sam have helped restore that routine, giving Dorothy regular conversation, time in the community and the chance to keep doing the things she loves.

Sam says watching Dorothy continue to embrace life at 104 is a privilege.

"Spending time with Dorothy is a real joy. We have lots of laughs together and it's lovely to see how much she enjoys our time together. I always leave looking forward to our next visit."

For Linda, the support has been "invaluable."

"Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland has honestly been a lifesaver.

"Knowing Mum is spending time with someone she completely trusts gives me real peace of mind. It means I can go shopping, go on holiday or even visit my daughter in Canada, knowing she's safe, happy and enjoying herself rather than sitting at home on her own."

Dorothy also receives support through the charity's Deep Clean Service, which helps keep her home clean, comfortable and safe.

Linda added: "Without that help I'd be trying to look after two houses. It takes away so much stress and means I can focus on spending quality time with Mum, rather than worrying about everything else." 

Age UK national figures show the strain many older carers face, with 69% saying caring affects their physical health, while 63% say it affects their mental health.

Dorothy and Linda's story reflects a growing reality across the UK. With the Office for National Statistics estimating 625,000 people aged 90 or over in the UK in 2024—a 53.7% increase since 2004, more families are finding themselves caring for very elderly parents later in life.

Linda hopes sharing her family's story will encourage other older carers to ask for support.

"More and more older people are finding themselves caring for very elderly parents, often while managing their own health, work or family commitments.

No one should feel they have to do it all alone. With the right support in place, older people can continue enjoying life, and carers can have the reassurance and time they need to look after themselves too," said Tony Donovan, Chair of Age UK Leicester Shire & Rutland.

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