Companion care is an essential element of in-home care that addresses a senior’s social and emotional well-being. Researchers have demonstrated time and again the critical link between an individual’s social and emotional health and their physical health. Sadly, a great number of today’s seniors live alone and do not receive the amount of companionship that they require. Even seniors who live with others may face a lack of social and emotional stimulation if their family, friends, or roommates do not have the time or ability to engage in meaningful conversation and reflection. In these cases, an in-home care provider can be worth their weight in gold.
When most people think about in-home care, they think about housekeeping, laundry, and personal care. What many people do not realize is that the social and emotional components or care are often even more important than the physical caregiving tasks.
Companion Care in Portland, OR
Isolation and loneliness are very quick paths to depression and a plethora of other health problems. Companion care helps alleviate loneliness and social isolation. In addition to listening, sharing stories, playing games, going for a walk, or sharing a meal, a companion develops a personal relationship with the senior. This personal link is often the difference between positive and negative mental health, which reduces the risk of depression, increases mental acuity, and can even delay the onset of dementia.
In addition to keeping a senior engaged at home, companion care is often the stimulus needed to get a senior reintegrated into their community. Many caregivers accompany seniors on shopping trips, to doctor’s appointments, or even to social events. Companion care gives the senior somebody they can rely on who knows their physical limitations, medical condition, and support requirements. Just knowing a caregiver is present provides confidence and security.
In short, loneliness and isolation are often associated with aging. Companion care helps keep seniors from experiencing these terrible conditions and the consequences associated with them.
