The truth is that we are social beings; even those who like and need their alone time need some type of interaction with other people to keep their mind and body healthy. But for many elderly who live alone, who may not have a lot of family around, getting older is met with social challenges, in addition to the many other challenges of aging.
Home healthcare agencies have been providing companion care for seniors for decades, but it may not be something that many of us think of when we’re looking to support an older loved one. In many cases, family members or friends try to make additional visits to their home, but this may not be sustainable when schedules get busy. Companion care can be a solution.
What Is Companion Care?
Companion care is a service that provides elderly people or people with disabilities the social and emotional support they need to live happy and healthy lives. The services are typically non-medical, but the exact services provided will depend on the agency, the individual’s skillset, and the needs of the senior.
What Do They Do?
As mentioned above, companion care services can vary greatly depending on what is requested or needed, but here are a few examples of what a provider can do:
- Play card games
- Help with other hobbies
- Watch TV
- Read
- Drive the senior to social events
- Help prepare meals
- Laundry
- Light housekeeping
- Pick up prescriptions
- Grocery shopping
- Running errands
- Can be there to just talk
Everyone has social needs, and seniors who live alone can benefit simply from having someone there to talk. Seniors can talk about what has happened in their lives recently, update their companion about their grandchildren, or anything else that comes to mind. It can be surprising the things that we talk about when there is someone there to listen.
Do Companion Care Services Provide Medical Care?
Generally, when someone hires a companion care service, the caregiver does not provide medical care. However, depending on the agency, they can help with certain tasks or activities that are medical in nature. These things can include reminding them to take medication (but may not include setting up a pill organizer), helping them get dressed, help with grooming, providing support in getting onto the toilet, and attending medical appointments to take notes.
Benefits To The Rest Of The Family
Because companion care can provide a range of services, it’s not only beneficial for the seniors themselves, but also for any family members in the area. If a family member visits an elderly parent a few times a week, a companion can be scheduled to visit on the other days, ensuring there is someone that they can talk to throughout the week. In some cases, when the senior’s spouse is providing care and is unable to leave them alone, a companion can come in to provide relief, allowing the spouse to take care of things they wouldn’t otherwise be able to.
Collier Home Care Provides Companion Care In Naples, Florida
If you have an elderly loved one who could benefit from having a companion, Collier Home Care can be there for you and them. Our team is highly trained and all of our caregivers are committed to providing compassionate service. Whether you need someone once a week or every other day, we can ensure that your loved one’s social and emotional needs are met. Learn more about our companion care services, and contact us today in Naples, Florida.