Let’s talk about a superhero often overlooked – the care companion. No, they don’t wear capes (though that would be fabulous), but they do possess superpowers like the ability to make a killer grilled cheese sandwich and recall where the darn utensils are in the kitchen. My mom, after becoming a solo adventurer post my dad’s passing, was living it up – choir practices, film group meetings, you name it. But then, dementia decided to join the party uninvited.
Enter the world of companion care, a ray of sunshine for folks like my mom who needed a watchful eye and a willing ear, but not necessarily someone with a stethoscope. It’s for those who don’t need a nurse but could really use a friend who remembers that Tuesdays are for book club and Saturdays are sacred for grocery shopping.
Navigating the New Normal
So, what’s companion care, you ask? Imagine a buddy who’s there to keep an eye out, share a laugh, whip up a meal, or just listen to stories about the good ol’ days. It’s like hiring a friend who’s also a bit of a guardian angel. For my fiercely independent mom, it was the perfect solution. She needed someone to hang out with, not a medical professional hovering around.
Finding The Perfect Match
But how do you find this magical person? It’s not like they’re listed under ‘Companions’ in the Yellow Pages. No, this requires a bit more detective work. You could go through agencies like Care.com or Comfort Keepers, which are like matchmakers but for finding care companions. They do all the background checking, so you don’t have to play detective. But remember, these matchmakers take a slice of the pie, so the rates might be higher.
The Cost of Care
Speaking of rates, the going rate for this invaluable company? About $26 an hour – a small price for peace of mind and lively conversation, I’d say. And if you’re thinking of going the DIY route, places like senior centers or college campuses are gold mines for finding caring souls looking to make a difference.
The Journey with Mom
Back to my mom’s story. I found her first care companion through Nextdoor – you know, that app where you usually learn about lost cats and garage sales. This wonderful woman filled Mom’s days with chatter, errands, and most importantly, companionship. When Mom’s health took a turn, we brought in a second care companion. They talked about everything from Mom’s travel adventures to her pride in her grandkids, over grilled cheese and hot chocolate.
The Next Chapter
Sadly, Mom’s journey led her to an assisted living facility. But before that, her companions made sure her days were filled with joy and purpose. They even went on art museum escapades, leaving Mom buzzing with excitement. And we’ve decided to keep this joy going; one of her companions still takes her out for lunch weekly, because, in Mom’s words, “She’s my new best friend.”
Tips for Hiring a Companion Caregiver
Be clear about what you’re looking for. Do you need a Scrabble aficionado, a culinary wizard, or just someone who’s a great listener? Spell it out. Vet your candidates thoroughly. Background checks are a must, unless you fancy turning your loved one’s home into a set for a crime drama. Check if your insurance is feeling generous. Sometimes, they’ll cover companion care under specific plans.
In conclusion, companion care is more than just someone hanging around your loved one. It’s about keeping them engaged, connected, and above all, happy. It’s about finding someone who can fill their days with laughter, support, and maybe the occasional trip to the art museum. So, if you’re in a similar boat, consider companion care. It might just be the superhero you didn’t know you needed.
