Jun 27, 2024 | News
Did you know that companionship care is one of the most important aspects of a live-in carer’s role? This type of care goes beyond simply assisting with daily activities and brings together emotional support, social interaction and a sense of security and well-being. For many older people, companionship care can significantly enhance their quality of life.
What is companionship care?
Companionship care is a type of live-in care that provides help with daily tasks like shopping, cooking, cleaning and driving, but with a strong focus on also providing company and support.
Loneliness is a major issue among older people, with an estimated 1.4million seniors feeling lonely often. This is particularly common among those who may have lost a life-long partner, or friends. Professional, compassionate companionship care can alleviate many of these feelings.
Who is companionship care right for?
Companionship care is ideal for an older person who has fairly straightforward care needs, but would benefit from having somebody to provide company, support and friendship on a regular basis.
Those who are keen to maintain a social life but struggle with driving or getting to and from appointments would also benefit from having somebody to help with these practicalities, leaving them able to focus on and enjoy engaging with other people and the activities they love.
What are the other benefits of live-in companionship care?
Personalised connections
A key aspect of live-in care is the ability to offer personalised companionship. Unlike visiting carers, live-in carers build a deeper understanding of a person’s preferences, interests and routines. This personalised approach means that activities can be tailored to the older person’s likes and hobbies, whether it’s reading, gardening, watching TV, or simply enjoying a cup of tea and a chat. Personalised interactions can greatly reduce feelings of loneliness and isolation.
Emotional support
Live-in carers can also provide invaluable emotional support. The presence of a caring companion can significantly alleviate anxiety and depression. A live-in carer can offer a constant source of reassurance and comfort, someone to share memories with, discuss daily events or simply listen.
Facilitating social activities
Older adults often face challenges in maintaining social connections due to mobility issues or a lack of family and friends who live close by. Live-in carers can accompany a person to social events or gatherings, as well as helping them stay in touch through phone calls or video chats, so they stay connected to those they love.
Encouraging independence
A live-in carer may provide essential day-to-day support, but they’ll also promote as much independence as possible. Meaningful human interaction and connection can boost self-esteem and confidence in older people, helping them to remain as self-reliant as possible for longer, while safe in the knowledge that they have the help they need close to hand. In turn, this can inspire someone to pursue hobbies, maintain connections and truly enjoy living life to the full.
If you think companionship care could be right for you or a loved one, give the team at OxleyCare a call today.
Call 01980 846690