What is a private Elderly Companion?

Viva Independent Living are a team of professional private companions for elderly people in Edinburgh. But what exactly is a private companion?

A private companion for an elderly person is a person who provides companionship and assistance to an older adult. This may include engaging in activities together, such as reading, playing games, or going for walks.

A private companion may also provide practical support, such as helping with some household tasks, shopping and transportation. In addition to providing physical assistance, our private companions can also offer emotional support and be a listening ear for the elderly person. We provide valuable social contact and can help prevent feelings of loneliness or isolation.

The specific tasks and responsibilities of your private companion will depend on the needs and preferences of the elderly person.

‘Private’ simply means that we are a private company, as opposed to a nursing or care service provided by your local authority of the NHS.

How does a Viva elderly companion help to prevent feelings of loneliness or isolation in an older person?

An elderly companion can help prevent feelings of loneliness or isolation in a number of ways.

  • Ssocial contact and companionship by engaging in activities together and having regular conversations we can help your loved one feel less isolated and more connected to others.
  • Emotional support Your Viva private companion can be a listening ear for the elderly person, which can be especially important if the elderly person does not have many other social connections or is living alone. This also provides you with an important line of communication – as we can feedback to you any issues the elderly person is experiencing that you might not otherwise know about.
  • Maintain a sense of independence. By providing assistance with tasks that may have become difficult for your loved one to do on their own, such as running errands or managing their medications, we can help to maintain a sense of independence This can help the elderly person feel more self-sufficient and less reliant on others, which can in turn help reduce feelings of loneliness or isolation.

How important is it for elderly people to feel self-sufficient?

It is generally important for elderly people to feel self-sufficient and capable of taking care of themselves to the extent that they are able. Maintaining a sense of independence can be important for an elderly person’s overall well-being and can help them feel more in control of their own lives. It can also help them feel more confident and capable, which can in turn help boost their self-esteem.

However, it is also important for elderly people to understand their own limitations and to be willing to ask for help when needed. It is not always possible or safe for an elderly person to do everything on their own, and it is important for them to have support when it is needed.

Find out more about elderly companions in Edinburgh

If you are caring for an elderly person in Edinburgh, and you think they might benefit from having regular companionship visits, please get in touch. We’re a friendly bunch here at Viva Independent Living. We’re a small company offering a personal service tailored to your requirements.

You can browse our website to find out more about our companionship services, our team of elderly companions, and our prices.

Please feel free to drop us an email at info@vivaindependentliving.co.uk, or pick up the phone. Viv Hardy, founder of Viva Independent Living is always happy to answer your questions on 07885 602972