The Benefits of Companionship for Seniors in Home Care

The Benefits of Companionship for Seniors in Home Care

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates that more than a quarter of older adults are socially isolated. It’s likely that number has only increased since the beginning of the pandemic. Isolation is not only a risk to a senior’s mental health. Isolation can have ill effects on their physical health as well. For example, those without sufficient social interaction are more likely to suffer heart disease, stroke, or dementia. Family members report that their aging loved ones who don’t have regular companionship can seem withdrawn, and less likely to keep up with daily tasks like personal care or cooking and cleaning. That’s why companion care services from an at-home caregiver can be such an important aspect; of care for elderly loved ones.

The Dangers of Isolation for Seniors

Isolation is more than just occasionally feeling lonely. Isolation occurs when seniors withdraw from social interactions and communities. This can be caused by circumstances, such as retirement or the death of a spouse. It can also occur because of mobility issues of a senior who lives at home. Health of a spouse deteriorating, or because of an undiagnosed condition such as depression or anxiety.

Seniors who have recently experienced changes in health or status are especially at risk.  Recent studies suggest that immigrants, members of minority communities and LGBTQ+ seniors also face an increased risk of social isolation. But no matter the cause, isolation can have serious consequences. In addition to the physical consequences mentioned above, isolated seniors experience higher rates of depression, anxiety and suicide. And those with other conditions, such as heart failure, may be unable to access needed care in a timely manner because of their isolation, and experience worse outcomes as a result.

What Are Companion Care Services for Seniors?

It’s a relatively simple, but important, concept. Seniors who need some help at home can have an at-home caregiver help with things like housekeeping and laundry. But companion caregivers also spend time with the seniors beyond what is needed for daily tasks. Companion caregivers are there to provide emotional support, ask them questions about their families, or just talk about the weather. Companionship for seniors is a big part of what our caregivers do. Why? Because many people with elderly parents don’t get to spend nearly as much time with them as they’d like. They may call frequently, but it’s not the same as in-person contact. For many elderly people with no daily routine the days can be long and lonely.

More Than Companionship for Seniors in Home Care 

Companionship care can also be much more than just a conversation. A senior’s companion may also help with cognitive function by engaging in activities like games that stimulate the senior’s mind, or jigsaw puzzles that help with fine motor function as well as keeping them intellectually engaged. An at-home care aide will also find out what types of activities the senior enjoys and can participate in, and join in where they can. For example, taking a walk in a nearby park, or discussing a favorite book or movie.

Home Care Powered by AUAF Delivers Companionship and Peace of Mind

Your elderly relatives need companionship, and you need the peace of mind that they aren’t becoming isolated. Our in-home caregivers can provide both, along with a wide array of other home care services.  You can find out more about how Home Care Powered by AUAF can help by contacting us or calling (773) 274-9262.