How to have fun being a Senior Companion

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There is a growing need for more senior companions. Many seniors cannot or will not do much driving or even socializing for a variety of reasons. It can be fun for you and a client to go places and do different things. Many a client would welcome a friendly, understanding companion to assist them on a short outing.

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Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

Reliable transportation (your own car or public transportaion)
Area map
Notebook with pen or pencil

Step1

Ask at a county office or senior center about any programs that may need help as a companion.

Step2

Before you become a companion decide what you like to do or are willing to do as a companion. Each county or organization of companions has guidelines and rules to follow but also allow for alot of flexibility. Discuss the guidelines with the supervisor to see if that suits your interests

Step3

Write a list of some of the things you like to do. You may prefer to stay in one place to play cards or do some craft indoors. You might like to take someone shopping or a short scenic drive. Other possibilities would be an outdoor activity such as going to a park, having a picnic or going somewhere different for a nice meal.

Step4

With the help of a supervisor share your ideas so that they may find a suitable match for you and a companion.

Tips & Warnings

There may even be someone who would like to go fishing in a nearby place or possibly take a camera tour to get some scenic pictures. Both of you could have lots of fun and you would be helping someone get out for awhile that would not otherwise have such that opportunity. There are times when an elderly person is living with relatives and each of them needs a short break from the daily routine.
Be sure you have the necessary information with you about the persons health issues and who to contact in case of an emergency. If you have any doubt or hesitance about any individual talk it over with the supervisor as that client may not be a good match for you.