Whether you are a senior citizen, an expectant parent, a person with physical dis abilities or will be transitioning from a medical stay at a hospital, signing up with a service that provides companion care might be good idea.

Companion care is different form home health care in that they can offer any service that is not medical related. Asking for help with medication reminders or trips to the doctor can be expected, the majority of companion care tasks consists of house cleaning, grocery shopping and running errands.

Another misconception about companion care services is that they only work during set hours. While that may be true for some agencies, many will offer their services at any time you need them. They will work with your schedule. You are not a slave to work within their's.

When considering a companion care agency, be sure to see if they offer a free in-home consultation. If they don't, find one that does. Even though all "companions" are screened for your safety, it is still a good idea for you to have a face-to-face meeting with the companion who will be coming into your house every week. You want to make sure that there is no confusion between either you or them regarding on what expectations are made.

The demand for companion care is growing making competition for your business necessary. Make sure you get the best bang for your buck. Create a schedule of regular visits and then when they are to start.

The real benefit of a service that offers companion care, especially to seniors, is building a friendship. While you are not buying a friend, the people who serve in this capacity love being around people. They can play cards with a senior citizen or offer a new mother advice on how to calm down a crying baby. Depending on the needs, they can help assist with bathing, dressing, preparing meals, laundry, running errands, organizing the mail or just calling in from time to time to make sure the client is getting everything they hope to get out of the service.

Just as there are no two people alike, companion care personnel are just as unique as the clients your hire them. The more information you can give about yourself and your needs, the better the match will be.

Don't sign up with the first companion care agency that is on the list. Be picky. Check for references. Call your friends and family members for suggestions. Call a bunch of agencies to see which one will serve you the best.