Senior Companions help older adults remain in their homes

Pat Harding, age 82, knows the value of bringing friendship, community and caring to other seniors. For 15 years, she served as an LSS Senior Companion. But due to health issues, she now has senior companion helping her.

Pat, who lives in Willmar, uses a walker, no longer drives and is unable to get around very well. Her Senior Companion does her grocery shopping every week, runs errands and provides rides to the doctor.

“It’s been a godsend, really and truly,” she said. “A Senior Companion helps me stay in my home. Without them, the next step would be a nursing home for me.”

“There was a time when I was going to the clinic twice daily seven days a week,” she added. “That gets to be overwhelming for your family. I have a great family support system nearby, but Senior Companions give them a break.”

Having minimal systems of care for seniors in the community keeps costs low and seniors in their own homes where they want to be. In fact, a $3,500 investment in a volunteer—who receives a small stipend, an annual health exam and mileage reimbursement—can help to keep five people out of nursing homes, potentially saving $250,000 annually.

In recent months, a new cost-saving approach developed at LSS links a variety of in-home services to seniors, helping to avoid the institutional cost. Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, companionship and care coordination are all offered through this new circle of service. Volunteer leaders form the core of this work, connecting seniors to the services they need when they need them.As the senior population continues to soar, this approach promises to be a long-term solution to growing costs in older adults care. Over 90% of frail older adults served by Senior Companions remain in their homes after one year of supports.