Did you know that one of the biggest factors that influences are long term sense of health and wellness is our access to community and socialization? As the past few years have shown us, being removed from our support systems and facing long-term isolation can have profound effects on both our mental and physical health. While life may be slowly returning to a (new kind of) normal for many of us, the reality for many seniors across Alberta is that they still face the struggle of loneliness and navigating their day to day activities by themselves.
In addition to having a multitude of benefits where safety and direct healthcare are concerned, home care services offer a stable, compassionate connection between caregivers and clients, giving both the opportunity to interact and share a unique portion of life together. For those who may live further away from their loved ones, and who wish to make sure the senior(s) they care for are safe, home care can provide peace of mind when it matters most, as well as companionship for those who need it.
Below, we’ll take a closer look at why companionship matters for seniors and how home care services can help. Read on to learn more!
Why Companionship Matters
No matter how introverted some of us may be, it’s no secret that all of us are social creatures. In order to function well and stay happy, humans need social interaction and community to thrive. This is particularly true in our older years when age brings new challenges and new crossroads to contend with regularly. Many seniors live alone and may not have regular social interaction, which can lead to unintentional isolation that results in loneliness or depression. A home care provider can be a trusted friend who provides a positive and uplifting presence in the senior's life, while also allowing them to conduct their day-to-day routine safely.
Key benefits of client-directed companionship include:
Companionship is an essential component of home care because it helps seniors feel less isolated and alone. Many seniors live alone and may not have regular social interaction, which can lead to feelings of loneliness and depression. A home care provider can be a trusted friend who provides a positive and uplifting presence in the senior's life.
Connection and Belonging
As we mentioned above, constantly being above becomes, well, lonely after a while. Dealing with the loss of friends and family members, physical limitations that come with old age, and navigating a rapidly changing world can be difficult to handle on your own. With trusted companionship, you or your loved one will always feel included, welcomed and capable, allowing your/their dignity and independence to stay intact and providing a companion to share stories and moments with while receiving care.
Encourage Maintained Physical Activity
Feeling isolated can lead to seniors disconnecting from staying regularly active due to a lack of overall motivation. This, unfortunately, can have poor results for their health and ultimately leave them feeling worse in the long run. Having a companion can help a loved one stay on top of their self-care routine and push them to stay active, even when they may not feel as motivated.
As an added bonus, home care is intellectually and mentally stimulating, as social interaction helps us keep those mental wheels turning as we interact with one another!
Safety and Security
Home care companionship also provides clients with an element of safety and security by ensuring they’ll be routinely checked in on and have someone to speak to should they be experiencing minor points of distress during a visit. Companionship removes the stigma of asking for help, and ensures that the person receiving cares knows that they aren’t alone, and will be cared for when it matters most.
Quality of Life
Finally, a life with companionship is one that is rich and rewarding. Home care can be an amazing supplement to an existing social community, safeguard against loneliness, and help seniors continue to live the best life possible within their homes for as long as they are able.
At Compassion Network Home Care, we’re proud to offer seniors in Edmonton and Calgary access to extensive home care services designed with your needs in mind. Contact us today to learn more!
