Companion Care
Companion care describes the support provided by a paid in-home companion, who assists with various daily tasks – from housekeeping to transportation – while also offering social engagement and interaction.
What Is Companion Care?
Companion care describes the support provided by a paid in-home companion, who helps with various daily tasks and provides social companionship. It’s often an ideal option for seniors who are healthy and independent enough to stay in their own homes, yet would like assistance with housework and chores. It can also provide a break for live-in family or caregivers.
This type of care is different than home care (non-medical), which requires a state license and assists seniors who need help with routine tasks such as bathing, grooming, mobility, and managing medications.
Companion care services and the cost of the agencies that provide them can often be covered by Long Term Care Insurance policies based on an assessment.
What to Expect from Companion Care
Companion care has both an assistance aspect and a social aspect. Companions help with light daily housekeeping and transportation, tasks that recipients may no longer be able to do as easily (or at all) on their own. They do not provide medical care, although they do often help with medication reminders.
A companion’s duties frequently include:
- Running errands, such as the grocery store or pharmacy
- Transportation to and from doctors’ appointments
- Light housekeeping and cleaning
- Meal preparation
- Laundry
In addition to chores and errands, a companion also provides regular companionship to help prevent social isolation. They may keep clients engaged through various activities such as cards, knitting, chess, and reading.
Is Companion Care the Best Option?
Consider the below statements for yourself, or on behalf of a loved one:
- I am in good health, and do not need help bathing or moving around
- I want to continue to live where I am, but could use some help
- I feel isolated at home and would love to have someone stop by regularly
- Having an extra set of hands would be helpful
- Having meals prepared for me would be helpful
- I would prefer not to have to rely on my friends or family for everything
- I cannot drive, or can only drive short distances
If most or all of the above statements apply, then a Companion Care agency may be a good option.
If you or your loved one need more help, the following options may be a better fit for Aging in Place:
Please note: always ensure that a home care care agency requires background checks for their staff.
Still not sure? Take our Care Assessment to see what care level may be best.
Cost of Companion Care
Home care agencies typically charge for companion care based on an hourly rate. Some also require a minimum number of weekly or monthly hours, and often require a contract.
Since companion care is a non-medical service, it is not covered by Medicare. Some long-term care insurance policies, however, may partially or fully cover companion care services.
According to Genworth’s Cost of Care Survey, the National Median Costs are as follows:
- Companion Care costs an average of $22.50 an hour; $4290 a month
Typically, companion care is funded by private funds and/or long-term care insurance policies.
