Companion Care Helps Seniors Aging at Home Avoid Isolation
January 26, 2024
Seniors from all walks of life are experiencing record numbers of isolation and loneliness. Healthcare experts are increasingly concerned about the impact of isolation on the mental and physical health of seniors. Seniors who live in rural areas are affected even more by isolation and loneliness because they live in remote areas.
When seniors live independently in rural areas they may be almost completely isolated from others. Neighbors may be far away, weather can make driving difficult if not impossible, and there may be no community resources like a senior center, gym, or other place for seniors to socialize.
For seniors who live in rural areas, companion care at home is a great solution to the problem of isolation that makes independent living difficult. Companion care at home means that seniors will get regular visits from a friendly care provider who can talk, share meals, and socialize with seniors who otherwise can’t get the social interaction they need to be healthy.
Some of the benefits of companion care at home for rural seniors are:
Emotional Support
Seniors in rural areas may struggle with anxiety and depression due to their isolation, especially if they have lost a spouse or their kids live too far away to visit. Visits from a companion help seniors navigate the emotional challenges that can accompany aging in a rural place.
Reduced Loneliness and Isolation
Loneliness and social isolation increase the risk of physical and mental health problems for rural seniors. But companion care at home means that seniors will have a link to the outside world and someone who can take them shopping, out to eat, or even to appointments like a doctor’s appointment if they need it.
Enhanced Quality of Life
Seniors who live in rural areas will get a sense of purpose and excitement when they get regular visits at home. Often seniors who live in rural areas love to garden, show off their homes and land, take walks in the fields, and walk down memory lane telling the history of their homes. A companion is a great listener who will help seniors enjoy their memories and listen to their stories.
Assistance with Technology
A home caregiver can also help seniors in rural places get internet set up, use video chat on a tablet or phone, and even set up video game consoles so that seniors can use technology to connect with people when the caregiver isn’t there. Technology can be a big help in keeping rural seniors connected to the world.
Encouraging Hobbies and Interests
Companion caregivers support seniors in pursuing their hobbies and interests. Whether it's reading, gardening, crafting, or other activities, caregivers provide encouragement and assistance to ensure that seniors can continue enjoying the activities they love.
Cultural and Language Connection
Companion caregivers may be matched with seniors based on shared cultural backgrounds or language proficiency. This enhances communication and understanding, ensuring that seniors feel a strong connection with their caregivers. Rural seniors whose cultural or religious communities have dwindled over the years can find connection and a sense of community again with regular visits from a companion.
If you or your loved one is looking for Companion Care at Home in Saratoga, CA, please call Familiar Surroundings Home Care.
Santa Clara County: (408) 979-9990
San Mateo County: (650) 353-9777
Santa Cruz County: (831) 480-3990