It’s no secret that people are living longer. The global elderly care market is projected to grow from $45.72B in 2023 to $98.19B by 2032.* In the struggle to meet the health care, daily living and emotional needs of an aging population, the need for high-quality care services is greater than ever. As family members seek out care for their loved ones, many are looking for options beyond traditional residential or assisted living facilities.
The concept of aging in place (remaining in one’s home and community as one ages) is becoming more popular, with many seniors choosing to receive care in the comfort of a familiar space. One way to help your loved one age well in their own home is by hiring a companion caregiver. Keep reading to find out how this service can keep your loved one at home by helping them stay connected to their community and the people who are most important to them.
What is companion care?
The definition of companion care is a nonmedical, in-home service that provides social and emotional support. It’s designed to enrich daily life for seniors by providing human connection as well as helping with tasks like light housekeeping, meal preparation and transportation. It’s different from personal care, which includes all the same services that companion care offers as well as help with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, grooming and toileting.
One You Love Homecare’s Companion Care Services offers:
- Companionship, friendship and emotional support
- Transportation to appointments, errands or shopping
- Medication reminders
- Meal planning and preparation assistance
- Help with laundry and other light housework
What are the benefits of companion care?
To completely define companion care, we need to include the emotional and mental health benefits of the service. Findings suggest that socially active older adults see lasting benefits in ways that their less social counterparts do not, including:
- A 38% reduction in dementia risk
- A 21% reduction in mild cognitive impairment risk
- An average delay in the onset of dementia of five years, leading to an estimated three additional years of life.
Companion caregivers help reduce isolation in seniors. Building connections is a big part of the meaning of companion care, leading to a fuller, happier life by keeping seniors engaged with others.
Is companion care right for your loved one?
If your loved one wants to age in place but is encountering some challenges staying in their own home, it might be time to look at companion care services. Start by asking yourself these questions:
- Have they stopped participating in activities they used to enjoy, like gardening, attending community events or watching their favorite shows?
- Do they seem lonely, even when their basic needs are being met?
- Is it getting harder for them to run errands, get to appointments or manage day-to-day tasks on their own?
- Do you worry about them spending long periods of time alone?
- Are you noticing changes in mood, energy levels or routine?
If the answer to any of these questions is yes, your loved one may benefit from the consistent, trusted support a companion caregiver can offer.
One You Love Homecare is here to help
One You Love Homecare offers customized solutions to help seniors remain safely in their own homes, ranging from companion care to personal and live-in care. Fill out the form below to connect with one of our care specialists and schedule your free care consultation. During this meeting, we’ll answer your questions, review your care options and help you take the next step.
Reach out today and find the support your loved one needs to age in place safely and with dignity.