What is companionship care for seniors, and why would you consider it for your elderly loved one?
The Canadian Health Survey 2020 disclosed that from September to December 2020, 11% of Canadians aged 65 and older often felt left out or isolated from others or lacked companionship. During fall 2020, these feelings are more evident among 18% of those living alone and 7% of those not living alone. Unfortunately, social isolation has a severe impact on the health of older adults. It is difficult to gauge its exact effect. However, recent studies among seniors found out how being lonely or socially isolated or lacking a companion presented health risks as these revealed:
- Relationship to increased risk of stroke (32%), heart disease (29%), dementia (50%)
- Significant increase in premature death from all causes
- Association with higher rates of anxiety, depression, and suicide
- Link to increased risk of hospitalization (68%), death (4 times), and emergency department visits (57%)
For this reason, providing companionship care becomes essential.
What is companionship care?
Companionship care is your solution to help your senior loved one avoid loneliness or becoming alone. Caregivers can assist in personal care (dressing, grooming, etc.), prepare meals, go grocery shopping, and accompany the elderly to doctor visits, social events, and others. The services they provide may not be a lot compared to full-time caregivers, but they still make a difference in the lives of the seniors. Hiring an in-home caregiver will help you feel secure and at peace. Finally, you know that there’s someone to provide the company, help with daily activities, and keep them safe while you are away.
For seniors, the benefits of companionship care are considerable, and these are only some of them:
- Fight depression and social isolation that eventually impacts the seniors’ health and well-being positively
- Improve brain function that is, therefore, associated with decreased risk of developing dementia
- Lower the risk of heart disease
- Help recover from surgeries faster
- Offer a sense of security
Companionship care is not only about giving company; it is also about making seniors feel safe and cared for. You may contact Surework Home Care Solutions for more details about companionship care.
