As the population of senior citizens continues to grow in the U.S (54.1 million as of 2019), so does the importance of elderly companion care.
Companion care is a service that supports aging adults and helps them stay as independent as possible.
This blog will discuss the five benefits of companion care that you may not know about. We hope that reading this post will help you make a more informed decision when choosing a caregiver for your loved one.
5 benefits you may not know about elderly companion care
Enhances emotional and physical well-being
Elderly companion care has been shown to improve emotional well-being by providing companionship. It also helps reduce isolation and provides therapeutic benefits such as reducing stress levels, improving cognitive function, and leading to improved moods and sleep patterns.
Furthermore, it can help with medication adherence, as elderlies often forget when and which medication to take.
Allows seniors to remain independent
This service allows the seniors to remain as independent as possible while also getting the care they need and enjoyments they desire. In many ways, this type of care resembles family caregiver services.
It helps reduce the burden on family members by caring for everything from bathing and grooming to grocery shopping and household chores.
Respite care for family members
Respite care is an incredibly valuable resource for family members who are caring for loved ones with chronic illnesses, disabilities, or injuries. It can help ensure that the caregiver has time away from their loved one to focus on themselves.
In addition, respite care can allow caregivers to relax and recuperate. This can be especially crucial during periods of stress, when they may be less able to provide quality care.
Provides companionship and socialization
Companionship and socialization are two important benefits of companion care. For the elderly, companionship can provide an escape from isolation and a sense of connection that is vital in later years. For people who work as companion care providers, providing companionship is one of the essential tasks of their job. It relieves loneliness and allows seniors to stay active and engaged in community life.
Since seniors are more likely to experience isolation, having a companion can help them maintain connections with their community. In addition to providing companionship, caregivers often provide opportunities for socialization.
This includes attending events such as religious services or gathering with friends at the senior center. Caregivers may also encourage their seniors to participate in activities they enjoy outside the home, like shopping or visiting museums.
Alzheimer’s/ Dementia Care
Alzheimer’s and dementia can be stressful for those living with the condition. In addition to providing companionship, caregivers often assist with basic ADLs, such as bathing and dressing. They may also assist with medication and other tasks that are difficult for the seniors to perform independently.
Caregivers can play an important role in assisting seniors with dementia through regular check-ins, providing support and encouragement, and ensuring that all essential needs are met.
Parting Words:
Elderly companionship can be a valuable asset for seniors. By providing companionship and socialization opportunities, caregivers can help their seniors maintain connections with their community. This may support the elderly in dealing with challenges such as isolation or stress.
