As we age, it’s common to need a little extra help around the house so you can remain independent at home. Extra home help can mean light housekeeping, running errands like grocery shopping, and even cooking meals. This gives you time and energy to focus on the things you love to do.
But many elderly Australians feel isolated. Likely they have lost a spouse, or their family members don’t live close enough to visit often. Friends may have moved into assisted care facilities or far away to live with family. And even if friends are close by, it’s sometimes hard to get transportation to visit. Regardless of the reasons, it’s common for the elderly to find themselves alone more than they care to be.
An easy solution is companion care. This is non-medical private home care assistance for older adults and those with disabilities. Companion care differs from medical or personal care; its goal is to provide companionship and emotional support.
What does companion care look like?
Companions make regular visits depending on how often you’d like to see them. Enjoy the company of a friend to play a game, watch a movie, or just talk over a nice cup of tea. Their priority is to offer lifestyle support to make sure you’re not isolated. Part of that support could include helping you keep an active lifestyle. They can offer transportation and mobility help so you can meet with your friends, clubs, or other groups.
In addition, a companion is someone who will help you stay active doing things you love away from home. Some people enjoy walks on the beach or in the park. Others like to go shopping or out to lunch. Companion care can help you get out of the house now and then so you don’t feel so isolated.
Some home care agencies even offer travel assistance if you’d like to go on vacation. If the freedom to take a vacation is something you’d like, a home companion will help you travel safely wherever you’d like to go. You can stay active, visit places you’d like to see, and even travel to visit family rather than waiting until they can come see you.
Final thoughts
Elderly adults in Australia are lonely for a variety of reasons, but they need not be. Companion care is the best solution against isolation and the depression that can follow.
If you already have a Home Care Package from the government, contact your home care provider to talk about companion care services. If you’re new to elder care services, start your research at myagedcare.gov.au
