In-Home Caregivers Supporting Seniors Outside the Home
Most people assume that the duties of a professional caregiver hired through a home care company are limited to assisting clients inside their homes with tasks like bathing and grooming, medication reminders, meal preparation, or light housekeeping. These are all useful services, but hired caregivers are playing an increasing role in seniors’ lives outside the home as well.
Appointment companions, also known as ambulatory escorts, often accompany older adults to doctor’s appointments, social functions, and religious services, take them shopping, or simply stroll around the neighborhood together. Professional in-home caregivers can provide these services, called companion care, alone or in conjunction with personal care services.
Doctor’s Appointments
While a trip to the doctor may not seem like a refreshing outing, a medical appointment companion can help turn it into one.
Some clients also opt to turn an outing for an appointment into a fun opportunity to indulge in a meal at their favorite restaurant or grab a treat on the way home. Professional caregivers provide the support necessary to make this happen.
In addition to walking or driving clients to medical offices, there is also the option to have home care companions attend appointments to take notes. This service can help older adults and their family caregivers better understand health changes and more closely follow the doctor’s orders. Some home care companies even offer to send a client’s authorized family members (typically those with HIPAA authorization and/or durable medical power of attorney) copies of these notes.
Religious Services
Attending services at houses of worship, participating in religious education or prayer groups, and contributing to faith-based events and service projects is an important part of many seniors’ routines. These activities provide socialization, promote spiritual and emotional well-being, and foster a sense of purpose. Companion care enables older adults to remain involved in their faith and community.
Social Events and Recreational Outings
Companions can accompany clients to all kinds of events that are important to them, such as weddings, holidays, parties, graduations, and more. Caregivers will often take clients to visit with family and friends.
Active elders who love to feel connected to Southern California’s rich and varied cultural scene particularly benefit from having a caregiver to explore. Caregivers can accompany clients to the movies, cultural events like plays and art exhibits, and even museums.
Wheelchairs can make some people feel inhibited about trying to get out, but clients can really make an entire day of getting out of the house for a special event. It’s a wonderful quality of life boost for homebound seniors, and the smiles and conversation that continues long after the event is worth any extra effort it may take on the caregiver’s part.
Reap the Benefits of Companion Care for the Elderly
Professional caregivers not only provide older adults with a sense of comfort and care but also a trusting and supportive relationship that enables them to continue engaging in the activities and social events they love. Getting outside is a refreshing change for seniors and an excellent way to promote both physical and mental activity.
Caring Companions At Home can assist you in finding the perfect caregiver. We offer personal care and one-on-one companion care services. Call us at 888-950-0750 for a free in-home assessment by one of our qualified Case Managers.
