Caring Companions

Adult children often face the challenging reality of seeking out the best plan of care for aging parents. Initiating the conversation can be difficult, as discussing money, health issues, and mortality can be nerve-racking. Complete Caregiver, a matching service for professional companions, suggests starting with an easier topic, such as reviewing their most recent doctor visit, which can then pave the way for expanding the dialog. Additional questions can include asking parents where they want to live, and the kind of lifestyle they’re envisioning 10 or 15 years from now. The conversation can progress to asking: “If we had caregivers visiting, what could they help you with?” Since 2007, the agency has supported aging parents with the home care assistance they need, ranging from a companion to check in a couple times a week to 24-hour care, and all caregivers must show proof of training and pass a rigorous background check to join the Complete Caregiver network. 619.948.4319, complete-caregiver.com