Companionship Services – Are They Worth It?

Many people in Pleasant Prairie want to know if companionship services are worth it. When someone gets older or has trouble doing things alone, they may need help at home. A companion can help with daily tasks, but the most important thing is that a companion gives company and friendship. This is different from a caregiver who may help with medical needs. A companion helps with things like talking, playing games, going for walks, and making sure the person does not feel alone. At Attend Home Care, the focus is on making sure people feel safe and happy in their own homes.

Why Companionship Matters

A lot of older adults in the United States live alone. In fact, about 27% of adults over 60 live by themselves, and that means around 12 million people may feel lonely at times. Loneliness can make people feel sad and can even make health problems worse. When a companion visits, they talk, listen, and help with small things around the house. This can make a big difference in how someone feels each day. A companion can also help with things like cooking, cleaning, and going to the store. These small things help people stay in their homes longer and feel more independent.

The Role of a Caregiver and a Companion

A caregiver often helps with health needs, like giving medicine or helping someone get dressed. A companion, on the other hand, focuses on being there for the person. They may help with chores, but their main job is to be a friend. Sometimes, a caregiver and a companion work together. For example, a caregiver may come in the morning to help with medicine, and a companion may visit in the afternoon to talk or play cards. This teamwork helps people feel cared for and less alone.

Real Benefits of Companionship

There are many good things that come from having a companion. First, people who have a companion are less likely to feel lonely. Studies show that older adults with regular visits from a companion have a better quality of life and feel happier. Second, a companion can help keep people safe. Many older adults fall each year, but a companion can help prevent accidents by making sure the home is safe and by being there if something happens.

Third, a companion can help people stay active. They can go for walks together or help with small exercises, which is good for the heart and muscles. Fourth, a companion can help with transportation. Many older adults stop driving, so a companion can take them to the doctor or to see friends.

The Cost of Companionship Services

Some people worry about the cost of having a companion. The price can change depending on where you live and how many hours you need help. In the United States, the average cost for companion care is about $20 per hour, or around $3,800 each month if you need help every day. In Pleasant Prairie, the cost may be a little different, but many families find that the help is worth it. When you think about the cost, remember that a companion can help someone stay at home instead of moving to a care facility, which can cost much more.

The Growing Need for Companions

The need for companions is growing. As more people get older, more families are looking for help. In 2024, there are about 53 million family caregivers in the United States, and most of them help older adults. Many families cannot be there all the time, so they look for a companion to help. This is why more home care companies, like Attend Home Care in Pleasant Prairie, now offer companion services. Families want their loved ones to have someone to talk to and spend time with, even when they cannot be there themselves.

Are Companionship Services Worth It?

When you look at the facts, companionship services are worth it for many people. A companion helps with daily life, keeps people safe, and gives friendship. The cost is often less than moving to a care home, and the person gets to stay in a place they know and love. Real numbers show that millions of people need this kind of help, and the benefits are real. People feel less lonely, stay healthier, and enjoy life more when they have a companion. If you or someone you know in Pleasant Prairie is thinking about getting help at home, companionship services from Attend Home Care can make a big difference.