When those that have led active lives become isolated as a result of aging, frailty, illness or disability, it’s not only the physical condition that deteriorates but can also lead to debilitating depression.
We need social interaction and company to maintain a connection to life as we age, and when frailty and illness take over, the sense of disconnection compounds the physical limitations that have become a new reality for once vital people.
Being able to age in place, at home and in familiar surroundings is first prize for all of us. It’s not only a healthier choice for delaying the chance of opportunistic illnesses to enter into the picture when least needed, it’s also the healthier choice emotionally.
Many families today choose to care for an elderly frail or disabled parent at home, but to do so requires a tremendous amount of sacrifice and energy for the family.
If you’re trying to care for a loved one living with dementia, the task is exponentially greater, and, in all these instances, if you have the choice, it’s important to realise that you will need support along the way.
This support comes in the form of caregivers who can provide assistance for your parent in terms of daily tasks and chores, and more, but also in the form of companions who are able to ease the terrible sense of isolation that can quickly transform into depression.
Isolation in the presence of physical illness or disabilities can cause a deterioration in health, as depression has a negative impact on the physical too.
It’s for this reason that CareChamp reached out to other professionals that have retired, many from the healthcare sector, and those who no longer work full-time in the sector, to join the team as companions to elderly frail or disabled people spending most of their time alone at home.
This team recognised the need for those of us who are housebound to remain motivated and stimulated enough to ward off depression and its accompanying threat to health, and, the only way to do this is to have special people like these companions share their compassion and understanding with those who are alone too much of the time.
As we begin to outlive lifelong friends we become less willing to form new friendships, but, this does not negate our need for good company a couple of hours a week to keep us going.
CareChamp companions are very special people. They want to give of their time and to feel that their contribution in spending time with someone housebound will add value to the client’s life, and to theirs.
It may be a challenge to introduce your parent to a companion who will visit a few hours when needed, but you could start by introducing the companion as someone who can assist your parent to get to the hairdresser, coffee with friends or to the doctor.
If you know your parent is fighting a losing battle with depression and loneliness brought about by isolation due to frailty, illness or disability, its worth seriously considering the positive impact a companion could have on his quality of life.
There’s more to a companion than someone who simply sits and keeps your parent company, but, to find out more about these very special people and the role they can play in keeping your parent engaged in life, and doing what they enjoy, please contact CareChamp.
This team is passionate about quality care for our elderly frail loved ones, providing exceptional caregivers throughout South Africa, registered sisters, Mobility Aids for sale or to hire, and, wonderful companions who bring a ray of sunshine in the door with them!