Something that can often go overlooked as we grow older is the importance of companionship.
There are numerous physical and mental benefits to companionship care that will enable our golden oldies to live out the rest of their years feeling fulfilled, happy and healthy.
Recognising when the best time to enlist professional help can be tricky, but we’ve got a blog listing the top signs you should be looking for. In addition to boosting the individual’s lifespan and heart health, senior companionship also gives seniors (and their caregivers) the peace of mind of knowing they are cared for.
Some of the other benefits of senior companionship include a happier social life, living at home longer, faster recoveries from illnesses, and even dementia prevention. Companionship care can help the elderly to live a longer, happier life at home, can prevent dementia and give peace of mind to caregivers and loved ones.
1. Live a Longer, Healthier Life
Loneliness amongst the elderly community is rife, and can have many traumatising side effects. People who are lonely are much more likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. This can affect simple tasks such as eating well, exercising, personal grooming and housekeeping, but can be as serious as increased blood pressure, greater chance of heart disease or a stoke, lack of sleep and cognitive deterioration. By hiring a companionship carer you can greatly increase your loved ones mood and allow them to live a longer, healthier life.
2. Prevent Dementia
Without active stimulation the human brain can quickly deteriorate, leading to diseases like dementia and Alzheimers. This is why it’s vitally important for the elderly to be social and do other activities such as playing games, getting crafty, reading, learning new skills, having a chat or any other activity that gets the brain working. Having a companion can be that motivation your loved one needs to keep their mind active.
3. Faster Recovery
As we get older, our bodies don’t recover quite as quickly as they used to. Companionship care plays an important role in the recovery process by preventing accidents and injuries occurring in the first place, and by supporting the individual through the recovery process by aiding with daily tasks and keeping their spirits up whilst they heal. There are even studies to show that patients suffer with less nerve related pain and less inflammation just by having a friend close by.
4. Peace of mind
We’ve all spent sleepless nights worrying about a loved one, but over time this can really take its toll. By hiring a companionship carer you can create some peace of mind not only for yourself, but your loved one too. Just by knowing there’s someone there to keep them safe can have a hugely positive effect. By ensuring they can live at home, independently you’ll sleep well at night knowing they have someone to help with daily activities and a healthy dose of social interaction to keep them healthy and happy.