What is Companion Care?
As individuals begin to age, finding companionship often becomes increasingly difficult. This may be caused by the loss of ability to drive therefore limiting mobility, relocation to be closer to family drawing them away from prior acquaintances as well as an increase in friends that are now deceased. Companion care is a supplementary service that offers emotional support and fellowship to these individuals. This is a non-medical service that focuses on social interaction and mental stimulation as opposed to health care assistance.
Services Offered
Those who participate in companion care experience aid in the following categories.
- Meal Preparation
- Light housekeeping including helping with laundry and washing dishes.
- Transportation to doctor’s appointments or other activities located outside of the home.
- Maintaining communication with loved ones and medical professionals
- Coordinating activities and social stimulation
- Administer medication and/or remind companions of necessary self-care routines.
- Organizing mail and other important paperwork.
Benefits Overview
A companion can allow an elderly person to comfortably live in their home as they begin to need more assistance pertaining to their daily routine. Loss of independence can often be frustrating for geriatric individuals as well as family members. Home care companies take some of the stress off of the family while instilling confidence in their companion. It allows seniors to live their best life while maintaining a feeling of control.
It is said that seniors who maintain a strong bond with another individual are able to maintain a sharp mind later into their life. From emotional benefits to physical benefits, In-home care is an extraordinary way to preserve the well being of your elderly loved ones.
Slow Aging
The New York Times wrote an article on the essential steps an individual must take in order to keep their mind young. Among their recommendations, they spoke on how taking part in a diverse array of activities helps maintain a joyful mindset and a strong sense of wellbeing. As we age, it gets harder to engage in activities on our own. Sometimes it is difficult to hold a thought long enough to pursue an interest. Extended sedentary periods can also start to decrease inner creativity, making it harder for an individual to find activities they enjoy. Companion care helps keep seniors motivated and engaged.
Prevent Depression
Although older people have reported overall satisfaction with their lives, drastic changes that come about with aging, such as the death of a loved one, retirement or illness, can trigger stress and uneasiness. These negative feelings can lead to depression if they are not handled properly.
Depressive states in the older population do not look the same as they do in younger people. Irritability, tiredness and trouble sleeping are common symptoms. When an individual has a hard time getting out and socializing, solitude can make feelings of depression worsen. Making sure your loved ones are getting the attention they need is a great way to ensure their happiness.
Continue Living at Home
When the geriatric population is not able to get the level of care they need at home, they often must relocate to an assisted living establishment or a nursing home. Many individuals often associate this move with a sense of abandonment. They are upset that there is no one to care for them and as a result, they must relocate out of their comfort zone into a setting that can often have a sterile essence.
In a study done by AARP, 90% of adults expressed their desire to continue to live at home while they age.
Many studies have also supported the benefits of aging in place, meaning remaining in the home as long as possible.
With that said, there are some rather nice assisted living homes and sometimes that is the best option for an elderly person. However, if it can be prevented, it is recommended. Home care companies help keep the elderly population comfortably living at home by offering assistance and liveliness.
Maintain Dignity
A study done by the Alzheimer’s Association found that 71% of adults fear that as they age they will become a burden to their loved ones. This fear actually outranks the concern associated with moving into a nursing home which resonates with 56% of study participants.
Because of this, geriatric individuals may be hesitant to reach out to loved ones when they are feeling lonely or in need of assistance. At home care offers an outlet that allows individuals to get the support they need while maintaining a strong sense of dignity. The feeling of being self-sufficient and independent is preserved when care is being offered in a form of assistance as opposed to micromanagement.
Lower Cost
Often, in-home care is less expensive than paying for an assisted living facility or a nursing home. Along with the increased expense, many facilities will provide semi-private rooms which take away a sense of privacy. The pricing can differ based on the level of care needed, therefore it is best to reach out to home care companies. Together you can discuss which options best suit your situation and create a care plan that is beneficial for everyone.
Personalization
With one on one at home services, an individual can get the care that is right for them. In order for group home settings to operate efficiently, seniors are often put on a schedule of activities that may go against a routine they are used to.
Care provided in the house also allows family to visit whenever is convenient for them. They are not restricted to visiting hours nor do they have to crowd in uncomfortable spaces in order to spend time together. Instead, precious family time can be spent in the comfort and luxury of home. This also encourages families to visit their elderly loved ones, an essential mental and emotional form of support, because there is not a fear that they are interrupting the routines of the nursing home or assisted living facility.
High Level of Care
With companion care, you will never have to worry about your family member getting neglected. One on one personalization combined with the comforts of home makes this a fantastic option to help ease one’s stressors later in life. Convenient for both the family and the senior, in-home care can help preserve everyone’s quality of life.
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