Are Companion Services Right for your Loved One?

You or someone you know may have recently gone through some changes and now require some assistance to maintain independence in the home. What do you do?  

First, you need to consider the level of care that is needed:

1. Is the person self-directing, making decisions for him or herself?
2. Is the person able to shower, toilet and dress independently?
3. Is he or she able to manage medications without assistance, only requiring at most a reminder?

If you answered yes to these questions, you probably require companion services rather than a home health aide, which is only needed if hands-on care is required. Companions provide assistance with laundry, meals, transportation to appointments or shopping, housekeeping, medication reminders and other daily functions. They are a source of socialization and most importantly, companions can be there when family cannot, to ensure that everything is going well. Companion services typically last from 2-4 hours a few days per week, but can be longer in duration depending on the needs of the individual.

A companion is not provided as a result of doctor’s orders; services are generally paid privately and are not covered by Long Term Care insurance. It is tempting to hire a companion privately, since the cost of services varies based upon the source of the companion, but hiring through a licensed agency provides peace of mind. Consider these questions when hiring a companion for your loved one:

• Is the companion bonded and insured?
• Has there been any health clearance or background check done? Were past work references verified?
• If the companion is to drive to appointments, how do you determine their driving competence?
• Will this same person be coming regularly? What is the minimum number of hours required?

At Gurwin Home Care Agency, we check the background of each companion, and cover them and you during the time they are providing services; however, we do not allow our companions to drive. We strive to maintain continuity of services, and provide regular staffing as long as all parties are satisfied and the schedule is manageable for the companion. 

Home care is a sacred trust; you are handing over the well-being of your loved one to a virtual stranger who may soon be regarded as part of the family. Make your choices carefully and you are sure to be rewarded with someone who cares from the heart and is fully competent to carry out the required tasks. 

By Nancy Geiger, LHCA