Humans are social beings, which is why it comes as little surprise that companionship can be greatly beneficial for our overall well being. In our younger years, we perceive socialization as a given. We are surrounded by people wherever we go, at school, in the university, at work or at home. Sometimes, we take this for granted.
But as we start to age, circumstances begin to change rapidly: reality is much different for a large portion of the eldelry population who may become isolated upon retirement, downsizing or relocation, loss of a partner or spouse, health issues and other factors. So why do providers of senior home care in Santa Monica place so much importance on socialization?
What does a companion for the elderly do?
A companion for the elderly often has the simultaneous role of an in-home caregiver. As a companion, their role is to keep an elderly person company and enable their socialization and wholesome, healthy activities with the purpose of helping your elderly loved one pursue physical wellness, seek personal growth and enhance quality of life. As a caregiver, they will handle light chores, errands, meal preparation, personal care and assistance and suchlike, creating a more favorable environment for your elderly loved one than communal senior care options such as nursing homes provide.
What are the duties of a companion?
Companionship includes a range of activities which may take within a person’s home or elsewhere, such as:
- Playing games,
- Storytelling and reading
- Crafts, painting, making scrapbooks
- Social events and engagements, attending events
- Planning day trips if and to the extent possible and in accordance with doctor’s recommendations
What are the benefits of companionship?
Living alone can become increasingly difficult as a person ages.
Seniors slowly begin to lose their independence and ability to do things on their own, whether due to the effect of old age or health deterioration which can cause limited mobility, chronic pain and general frailty. These changes are not easy to accept in their own right.
To make things worse, tasks such as errands, medical appointments and household chores keep piling up in the meantime and potentially taking a heavy toll on a person’s mental health. It comes as no surprise that elderly people often suffer from anxiety and depression for these very reasons.
But none of the above has to be the case. There are ways to make things easier and organize everything so the person does not feel like they are all alone. Namely, while some elderly persons can and prefer to function on their own and others need daily part-time or full-time care, what they all have in common is their need for companionship.
Companions provide the elderly with the opportunity to interact with a friendly face, someone whom they are comfortable with. They do so without disrupting the person’s privacy or daily routine.
What are the social needs of an elderly person?
It may not be the ideal time to linger long at the Santa Monica Farmer’s Market, but it is still possible to have a rich and rewarding social life while maintaining a safe distance, even within the comfort of home. After only a few visits from a new companion, your elderly loved one will feel relaxed and comfortable and ready to take part in and initiate activities on their own. This leads to a higher sense of accomplishment and self-worth, which translates directly into better mental health and a more fulfilled life.
Bringing you full continuum of quality home care in Santa Monica
There are few things you can do to enhance the quality of life of your elderly loved one that are as effective as matching them to a companion. A companion who will make regular visits to your elderly loved one’s home to provide them with help around the house, keep them safe and shield them from loneliness.
Experience premium service and let us show you our dedication and commitment to quality senior care. Contact us today!
