How much does companion care cost in the UK? - A guide
Social isolation is becoming more common in our society affecting people of all ages, it is especially challenging for elderly individuals who live alone, especially those who do not have any family or are able to visit any friends close by.
Nowadays, families often live further apart and work longer hours leaving less time to spend together compared to previous decades. More people are living alone which increases feelings of loneliness and isolation, this can lead to poor health and potential feelings of depression.
Homecare agencies have offered companion care for seniors for years, it is often not the first thing we consider when supporting older loved ones. Many times, family or friends try to visit more, however, this can be difficult to accomplish around personal and work lives. Companion care offers a solution to these challenges.
What is Companion Care?
Companion care offers crucial emotional and social interaction which prevents loneliness and isolation. Having companionship and emotional support is important for everyone's well-being and happiness. Loneliness and isolation can negatively affect both physical and mental health regardless of age.
Companionship is often completed by sociable, happy members of staff who enjoy building a relationship and chatting to a client. Some of the main aims of companion care are to offer emotional support, companionship, and assistance with various tasks as needed, such as;
1) Light housekeeping
2) Other household tasks like doing laundry and washing dishes
3) Taking the client to medical appointments or running errands
4) Preparing meals
5) Spending time together and doing activities (such as hobbies)
6) Talking with family members and other caregivers
What are the benefits of Companion Care?
a) Getting regular visits from someone who supports hobbies, exercise, and social outings is beneficial for physical and mental health. When older adults feel lonely and cut themselves off from others, they often find themselves isolated which can make their physical and mental health problems worse. A companion is happy and willing to do activities, promote hobbies, and encourage movement.
b) Companion care can also provide practical support, as well as being a friend, a companion can assist with housekeeping tasks such as cleaning and laundry. They can also assist in shopping and cooking meals at home and provide support in the community by going along to appointments or helping on longer trips. They can encourage short outings like accessing the community or going out for coffee which can really brighten any person’s day.
c) Companion care is also beneficial for family and/or caregivers in many ways. It helps lessen the emotional and practical duties of looking after a family member which is especially helpful for caregivers who need a break.
How much does companion care cost?
The cost of having a companion carer can change depending on the location that you live and the amount of time you will need the carer for. The average rate of companion care across the country is about £20 per hour.
What are the steps to consider before arranging companion care?
1) Make sure you thoroughly research your options.
2) Make sure you understand the care needs completely and what you expect from a companion caregiver.
3) Make a list of agencies that you prefer.
4) Speak with the people who work for the agency.
5) Arrange to meet at least one caregiver from the agencies you like the most.
6) If you can and need to, get a loved one to assist you with arranging care.