A majority of seniors in the United States live alone or are alone at home for the better part of the day. The time spent alone could result in loneliness, isolation, or depression which can negatively impact their physical and mental health. While most seniors want to maintain the highest level of independence and freedom within their homes, relocating them to a nursing home or an assisted living facility is often not the solution.
Whether the seniors are ailing or not, companionship plays a significant role in providing a social connection and giving them a sense of purpose. Companion care is purposed to provide long-term care to help seniors enjoy the benefits of true friendship. This article shares the importance of companionship for seniors.
Importance of Companionship for Seniors
Importance of Companionship for Seniors
Increased Lifespan
Social connections formed through companionship play a significant role in combating loneliness, isolation, and depression. This has a positive impact on their mental, physical health, and overall well-being, hence an increased lifespan. It also helps in the prevention of diseases and conditions such as heart disease with simple physical activities and dementia through mental stimulation from games and puzzles.
Aids in Faster Recovery
For seniors recovering at home following hospitalization, companionship helps them heal faster and simplifies the recovery process. In-home caregivers who provide companionship also support seniors with physical therapy, simple exercises, or accompanying them for a walk. By taking off the burden of personal care or house chores seniors are able to fully focus on the recovery process.
Importance of Companionship for Seniors
Maintains Connections
Through companion care, caregivers ensure that seniors are in constant communication with their family and friends. Such connections can be maintained through technology, driving them to social gatherings, or organizing regular meet-ups. A caregiver encourages social connections to keep loneliness at bay.
Offers Peace of Mind
Aging comes with a loss of physical strength or mobility making it risky for seniors to live alone. The constant worry over falls or medical emergencies could affect seniors and their families. Companionship provides peace of mind to them as they know that there is someone to keep them safe all the time.
Encourages Independence
In-home care through companionship is aimed at helping seniors maintain their independence in day-to-day activities. Caregivers focus on offering the kind of support that enables and encourages seniors to remain independent. They can cook or participate in personal care without entirely depending on the caregiver.
Importance of Companionship for Seniors
Gives a Sense of Purpose
Seniors in retirement or out of work might feel like they are not making any meaningful contributions to society while alone at home. A companion is able to create a list of activities that will enhance a healthy mental stimulation which gives them a sense of purpose. Simple projects or hobbies within the home give seniors something to look forward to everyday. It also helps the companion identify some of the unhealthy habits that could be making them feel unworthy or unappreciated.
Seeking senior companion services in Medford? We can help.
Our customized companion care services offer the much-needed stimulation and contact with the outside world for your or a loved one. Get in touch with us and let us schedule a consultation with our experienced case managers.
Like and follow us on Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.
Subscribe to our YouTube Channel