Elderly Companion Care – Is It For Your Family?
Unfortunately, many elderly folks spend far too much time alone. If you or a loved one are getting up there in the years and getting out less than in the past, it might be time to look into elderly companion care.
Is Elderly Companion Care Needed?
Sometimes, the most beneficial treatment for an ailment is time spent with someone and getting much-needed help around the home. The services that the carer can provide include:
- Housekeeping – laundry, dishes, bedding, cleaning
- Meal Preparation – meals that can be served immediately, and those that can be reheated later
- Errands – groceries, prescriptions, household goods, etc.
- Transportation – medical appointments and other activities
- Communication – taking calls, forwarding messages to family members, sending mail, etc.
How is companion care different from home nursing?
Companion care is not like having a home nurse visit. In most cases, the home nurse is limited in the amount they are allowed to do beyond the care for the patient. For example, the nurse or aide may help with bathing and physical therapy. They'll perform med checks, take vitals and make recommendations for when a doctor may be needed for further treatment.
How often do companion caregivers visit?
You can arrange for the caregiver to come as often or as little as needed. One weekly visit to catch up on the housework, get some groceries, prepare some meals and just fill in when other people can't be there to check in.
The caregiver can be scheduled for just a few hours a day or all day – there are even overnight caregivers that can be there just to be sure all is well through the night. If you find you need the visits more often, just contact the caseworker and inquire if there is a caregiver available for those times.
How do you get started?
There are many companion caregiver services out there. If a home health care service is already providing care, inquire with that company to learn about the availability and the rates. Then, you have the option to look into other private companies until you find the company that fits your needs and provides the level of attention that is needed during this time in life.
Take your time and find the companion service that feels right. Eventually, you'll find the perfect person to assist in all the ways that are needed and a new friendship will be formed.
To learn more, reach out to an elderly companion care service provider.
