What’s The Difference Between a
Companion and a Care Giver?
Although people often use the terms interchangeably, there's a difference between a
companion and a care giver in terms of both responsibilities and training.
A Companion has less or no training than a personal aide/care giver
and are best for people that need “non-medical” help with some or many
aspects of daily living. A companion prepares meals,
does light housekeeping, and offers companionship. A
companion may also help with laundry, do grocery shopping, and drive the older adult on errands. There are no training requirements for a home companion, but you want someone who's able to be
caring and is a good personality match with the client. In-home care
agencies offer assistance with “activities of daily living” everything from grocery shopping and
meal preparation to nonmedical personal care, such as toileting, bathing, and so on. Companion costs range from minimum wage to about $20 an hour, depending on location, experience,
and services provided. Companions can also benefit family caregivers who need a break.
A Care Giver, also called a personal care assistant or home health aid, may do all the tasks
as a companion, but also offer qualified personal care such as
bathing, dressing, toileting, and feeding, along with minor medical
care and limited housekeeping. Care givers are best for those who
need some personal or light medical care in order to stay in their
home. A care giver/personal aide is typically required to have a
home health aide certification, which involves completing a 76hour, nurse-supervised training program. Care giver costs range from about $15 to $50 an
hour, depending on location, services provided, and training; and 24-hour in-home care can
cost approximately $20,000 per month. Care giver costs may be covered short-term by
Medicare if medically required, and longer term by Medicaid.
Another difference is in scheduling. A companion usually works part-time, and sometimes
for just a few hours a week. A care giver is more likely to work set shifts of daytime or evening
hours. When hiring someone keep in mind that your situation is likely to change over time.
Your loved one might be relatively healthy today and have a health issue tomorrow. If you
anticipate hiring this person long-term, you might be better off with someone who has
training and certification. It is also important to have someone who is licensed, bonded and
insured.
For a list of care providers, go to www.FrankeTobeyJones.com/lifestyle options/skilled
nursing—and under Quick Links click on In-Home Care and Home Health Providers.