Seniors often require companion care services to reduce feelings of loneliness and improve both their mental and emotional well-being. Companion caregivers can assist seniors with daily tasks like meal prep, house cleaning and running errands.
Home care services provided to seniors often fall outside the coverage of long-term care insurance plans; learn how to locate and hire senior home companions as well as what to expect during their care process.
How to Find a Companion
Consider all your options when seeking to find an elderly loved one a companion, from Craigslist or social media ads, home care agencies or hiring directly. Payment may either come directly from you or through insurance policies – consider what works for your budget when selecting an elder companion.
Companion care can be an affordable solution for seniors in need of emotional support or assistance with activities of daily living, helping reduce loneliness and isolation – which can have serious health repercussions for older adults.
Home care agencies can also give family and professional caregivers a break from caring for a loved one or running errands, and give you more time for other things such as hobbies or leisure activities. You could contact home care agencies directly, as well as your local community services department or social worker for additional information regarding community programs and services – some states even reimburse Medicaid costs of companion services!
Hire a Companion Through an Agency
Home care agencies can match clients with caregivers that meet their specific needs. Most agencies conduct background checks and professional references checks. Furthermore, many may specialize in certain forms of care such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s care and provide other supporting services such as transportation or meal preparation.
Companion care agencies may provide clients and families with a list of potential candidates, but ultimately it is their responsibility to interview each caregiver and select one they feel best matches their needs and personality. If a relationship doesn’t pan out as intended, the agency can assist in finding another match.
Seniors living alone often find it challenging to remain at home, particularly if they live far from family members or have limited income. Companion home care services can improve quality of life while giving seniors social interaction they crave. Contact your local Visiting Angels office now for a complimentary care consultation; one of our friendly coordinators will assist in selecting an ideal caregiver through the Select Your Caregiver program.
Hire a Companion Independently
Are You Concerned About an Elderly Loved One’s Wellbeing, Sudden Changes in Temperament or Dwindling Living Situation? Home care companions can offer invaluable support by providing social interaction and companionship for seniors to keep them independent while remaining healthy.
Private home care agencies typically maintain extensive networks of screened caregivers who can match your senior with someone suitable. They can also offer additional support services like grocery shopping and meal preparation as well as financial and healthcare management assistance.
If your senior doesn’t wish to work with an agency, independent caregivers can be found through community organizations, faith communities or senior advocacy groups. Independent caregivers may offer lower rates than home care agencies as many may volunteer; however they may not have as much experience or been as thoroughly vetted – make sure you inquire into their background, education and professional credentials prior to making a selection and be open-minded towards caregivers from different cultural or linguistic backgrounds.
Hire a Companion in a Care Community
If your loved one lives in a care community, it may be worthwhile partnering with the agency providing home companion services. Agencies typically conduct background checks and verification on caregivers as well as provide backup support if someone becomes sick or needs time off; additionally they often handle payroll, workers’ compensation, and liability insurance claims for clients.
Locating senior home caregivers can be accomplished through word of mouth referral or advertising in local newspapers, online platforms and Craigslist. Religious houses, senior centers and retirement communities may also allow you to post job notices.
Caregiver assistance can assist with groceries, meal prep and cooking duties, laundry, housecleaning, transportation to appointments or social activities, errands, pet care services and much more. They may even monitor for physical or emotional distress signs that you might not notice yourself; some Medicare Advantage plans cover companionship care – speak to your agent about this service today.