There are generally three core areas of home care and support, these are Companionship, Home Help  and Personal Care. When we first meet a potential client the support, we often discuss and first introduce is Companionship. It is fair to say that not everyone fully embraces having home support initially, and that is understandable. 

Having home support in some ways is an acknowledgement that a person’s situation and circumstances have changed and that can be difficult and hard to come to terms with. However, once a routine and a relationship are established it can have a positive impact on an individual’s life. Staying connected to others can create a sense of purpose and more positive mindset. Social connections are said to have a positive impact on our physical health too. Clients and family members regularly comment on how quickly they notice an improvement in mood, a feeling of being more contented. This can come from just knowing that there is a regular visitor, building a new relationship and not having long periods of isolation. This type of support can also help to build a person’s confidence, feel less lonely and more connected with their local community. 

There are many other benefits to Companionship support, clients find they are more easily able to re-engage with hobbies and activities they used to take part in. It could be something as simple as going out for a walk, lunch at the golf club, choir practice or a shopping trip. Most companies who provide home care and support will also be able to arrange accompanied visits to see doctors and for hospital appointments. Visits should always be tailored to the needs of the individual and have the flexibility to be extended if necessary to accommodate the nature of the visit or appointment.

For family members Companionship support for their loved one provides them with peace of mind and can help facilitate communication through phone calls or video chats, especially important if they do not live close by. 

Ultimately Companionship support will help maintain independence and enrich daily life.