8 Benefits of Companion Care
Loneliness among seniors can negatively affect their quality of life and induce social isolation. However, services like companion care connect local seniors with compassionate caregivers who appreciate and embrace the chance to get to know elderly members of their communities. Companion care caters to seniors from all backgrounds, including those with family members who live far away and those with family close by.
Below, we’ve compiled a list of the eight benefits of companion care. Not extensive or exhaustive by any means, this list can help seniors and their loved ones recognize the value of a senior companion and how such an addition can positively affect seniors in their daily lives. Visiting Angels of Pikesville/Owings Mills offers companion care services for local seniors, matching them up with dedicated and compassionate caregivers.
1. Encourages Participation
If you’ve ever been unsure of something — and maybe even a little bit afraid — having a companion at your side can make all the difference. Companions often encourage seniors to participate in events they’re interested in, with many caregivers even going so far as to join seniors. Making new memories with a trusted friend adds a new level of fun.
2. Fosters a Sense of Belonging
We all want to belong to a group, regardless of the specific size. Seniors can benefit from companions who make them feel like a part of something bigger because it boosts self-esteem and promotes a happier mental status.
3. Reduces Safety Risks
The presence of a companion caregiver means someone is around to reduce risks of falls or other safety hazards. Companions can also monitor their clients for daily behavior or physical changes, alerting appropriate family members and medical care teams as needed.
4. Promotes Brain Activity and Social Engagement
Processing significant amounts of stimuli isn’t always easy to do as we get older. However, with a companion, seniors may feel more free to engage socially. With each interaction, seniors can improve their cognitive function.
5. Increases Physical Activity
Achieving a goal related to physical activity can have more meaning if you accomplish it with a companion. Caregivers can help motivate seniors to reach their physical activity goals, from exercising and physical therapy to mobility.
6. Provides Emotional Support
Seniors can find a confidant in their caregiver, someone who listens and cares about what’s going on in a senior’s life. Caregivers can also help seniors find the resources they need for more significant issues that require professional assistance.
7. Improves Quality of Life
Companions are there to provide a helping hand, even when they’re not asked. Caregivers help seniors prepare meals, shop, perform light housekeeping, and manage their homes without exhausting their energy.
8. Protects Independence and Peace of Mind
Caregivers can help seniors maintain independence and simultaneously provide peace of mind for family members. Companion care allows seniors to continue aging in place without sacrificing independence. In turn, it helps prevent family members from worrying about their loved ones when they aren’t there.
Companion Care at Visiting Angels of Pikesville/Owings Mills
The dedicated caregivers at Visiting Angels of Pikesville/Owings Mills welcome the opportunity to provide companion care to local seniors. Our customized care plans and staff of compassionate caregivers enable us to give back to the community in ways that truly make a difference. In addition, we also offer the following resources which might be of help:
- Support Senior Mental Health With Mindfulness Practices
- 3 Signs It Might Be Time For Senior Care Help
- Helping an Aging Parent Who Can’t Take Care of Themselves
If you’d like to learn more about our companion care services, contact us to schedule a free consultation. We’re happy to answer your questions and craft a personalized care plan based on your needs.