Guide to companion care in NYC

Sometimes, as someone ages, they may fail to go out as much as needed. This can be either due to aging itself or as a result of illnesses. So a person may not spend as much time outside as needed. This can hurt mental and physical health. Illnesses can leave someone incapable of taking care of themselves.

There are many care options for an older adult. One of them is companion care. This form of care on which an individual has access to both engaging activities and monitoring outside and at home. Companion care NYC should be one of the options when looking for a long-time solution for a loved one, according to Galaxy Home Care.

Main types of the companion care

As opposed to regular care, this type offers companionship for older adults. The companion is usually trained in basic cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The care provider also helps a person with everyday tasks such as dressing or feeding.

However, the main task is to provide company and make sure a person is safe at home. There are two types of companion care, in-home and live-in. Let’s check them both in detail.

In-home care

Many people choose this option because they can stay in the comfort of their homes. The companion will provide home visits. The schedules vary depending on an individual’s needs. Some may provide services every day or on alternate days.

The companion has a list of tasks to complete during each visit. Over time this can change according to the client’s preferences. All the work that the service provider offers is only for the elderly. They are not responsible for other people who live on the same premises.

The companion may also be involved in other tasks such as shopping and giving prescribed medication to people with chronic illnesses. Once all the tasks are completed, the companion can leave.

Live in care

Sometimes an older person may need constant monitoring and cannot live alone. In this case, the companion will have to move into the house. This usually applies to people with debilitating mental Illnesses such as dementia or Parkinson’s disease.

Any condition which can cause frequent medical emergencies is a good indication to choose to live in companion care. The duties are the same as for in-home Care. The only difference is that one has to stay and help an individual even at night.

However, the companion is not expected to work 24/7. There should be a clear agreement on when the companion can work and rest. Carefully read through the agreement to understand what the role of the companion is. This will help you avoid legal issues once the companion starts living with a loved one.

Main benefits

So why should you go for companion care? What makes it a better option than nursing homes or any other care facilities? Here are some of the benefits of companion care.

1. Provides companionship

This type of care for seniors who live alone helps them not feel lonely. They may not find it possible to move out of the house. So getting someone to come home instead is a good option. The companion can chat with the older person. Other activities include playing games or going for walks if possible. Having someone to talk to will help a person feel less lonely.

2. Helps with mobility

Some Illnesses and aging, in general, can affect how a person moves around. The person may fail to attend doctors’ appointments or activities alone. So a companion will make sure that a person is still able to move around whenever there is a need.

3. Assistance with daily tasks

While the primary concern of companionship is to help an individual get some company and protection, another is to help with everyday tasks. This includes tasks such as:

dressing
preparing meals
washing dishes

buying groceries

The list goes on. It all depends on what someone needs. Getting special care from home is important. By providing help with everyday tasks, you won’t have to worry about how a loved one gets by. They can live a more comfortable life without worrying about performing specific tasks.

Cost of the services

You can get a companion through care services. Companies will assist depending on individual needs. Payment is usually charged based on the type of service required. You will have to pay at regular intervals. In other cases, you may hire a companion without an agency. However, make sure the agreement complies with local employment regulations.

An agency may be more expensive. One of the advantages of choosing an agent is that if the companion cannot visit your family member, they can send a replacement. If you do not use an agent, conduct background checks on the companion.

When hiring companion care services, keep the needs of a loved one in mind. While the fundamental role of a companion is to provide protection and fellowship, they can also help with other activities.

Ensure you state your needs from the beginning so that a loved one gets all the necessary help. It may require extra payment. Another thing to consider is qualifications. A companion isn’t expected to have qualifications. However, it is excellent that the person taking care of your family member has some certification in the basics of first aid.

Final thoughts

Companion care is an excellent option for care for people with chronic Illnesses. They will get the necessary help with daily tasks and participate in social activities. This helps to reduce stress and depression.

A loved one can benefit immensely from a companion visiting your home or staying there. In both cases, the companion works a limited number of hours daily. They will provide social and physical activities. The live-in may also provide help at night when the need arises. Companion care in NYC can help you take care of a loved one and help them to live a quality life.