Companion care offers seniors social connection, supervision, and help with everyday tasks — without medical services.
What does companion care include?
Companion care is non-medical support focused on social engagement and daily assistance. Caregivers provide conversation and company, accompany seniors to appointments or outings, prepare meals, do light housekeeping and laundry, help with errands and grocery shopping, offer medication reminders, and provide general supervision and safety oversight. It does not include hands-on personal care like bathing or medical tasks. Companion care is ideal for seniors who are largely independent but lonely, mildly forgetful, or who need a watchful presence to stay safe at home.
How much does companion care cost?
Companion care typically runs $25–$32 per hour in 2025, slightly less than personal or skilled care because it's non-medical. Many agencies have a minimum number of hours per visit. Costs rise in high-cost metro areas and for evening, weekend, or holiday hours. Because Medicare doesn't cover non-medical companion care, it's usually private pay, though some Medicaid waivers, VA benefits, and long-term care policies help. Call 1-800-MEDIGAP for local pricing and funding options.