CompanionCare is a supportive program for people aged 55+ to promote self-reliance and encourage continued engagement in community life.

CompanionCare is a unique supportive program for Dane County residents 55 years of age or older. Services promote self-reliance and encourage continued engagement in community life.The fee for service is based on a sliding scale and is subsidized by grants and donations to Catholic Charities.

Services

Established in 1999, CompanionCare is person centered, and the Care Plan is designed interactively with the client. Services include: Companionship, personal transportation and escort, personal care assistance, medication reminders, light housekeeping, meal preparation, exercise, respite (rest and relief for family caregiver) and information about community resources.

Assessment Process

The Assessment Specialist conducts a comprehensive in-home assessment to ensure that CompanionCare services are appropriate. She gathers information about client needs from the client, family members, case manager, and other involved persons. She makes referrals to other community resources, as suitable. A follow-up assessment is conducted at least annually.

Companions

Companions are mature, competent, and responsible individuals with a genuine desire to help older people. They are screened, extensively trained, and carefully supervised by the program coordinator. The Companion is matched to the needs of the client and is assigned for the duration of the Care Plan.

Support for Persons with Alzheimer's and Other Dementia

The CompanionCare staff includes an Alzheimer's Specialist who is trained in the complexities of dementia. This Companion provides direct respite service for family caregivers of individuals with mid to late stage Alzheimer's disease and/or other dementia. She also provides training and support to other Companions who serve people with less complex dementia as well as to volunteers in the Aging Services Elder Mentor Program and Respite Care Team Ministry.

Family Caregiver Support

CompanionCare provides support to family caregivers through individual consultation, family meetings, and respite care. Staff can help eligible clients apply for caregiver funding to offset the cost of service.

Coordination with Community Services

Aging Services staff work closely with social workers who refer clients to CompanionCare to assure that service goals are met. Communication includes consultation and reports.

Accreditation

CompanionCare is fully accredited by the National Council of Accreditation of Children and Family Services and undergoes a rigorous quality assurance process. The program has achieved a positive reputation in the community, and service evaluations indicate high client satisfaction.