Introducing a new Companion into the household can be both exciting and a bit nerve-wracking. By taking the time to set clear expectations from the start, you set the stage for a positive and fulfilling relationship with your Companion.
An ideal first visit begins with lots of interaction and communication to help create a strong sense of trust and understanding, making that first introduction easier for everyone involved.
Speak with the Person Receiving Companionship about the Upcoming Visitor
If a loved one is involved in the process of hiring a Companion, there will be a transition period and potentially some emotions. Open and honest conversations are critical to a positive experience for all. It’s very helpful to have a calm discussion with the client – explaining to them who the Companion is, what company they are from, and what exactly will happen during their visits. Most importantly, the client needs to know the company has very strict criteria and guidelines for their Companion employees, so they can rest assured that their Companion has been well vetted for their safety.
When it comes time to make the first introduction between your loved one and their new Companion, make sure to provide plenty of time for a “getting to know you” conversation. Encourage mutual conversation between both parties by asking open-ended questions about their interests, hobbies or past experiences. If possible, have a couple pre-planned activities ready so that there is something fun and engaging for them to do together. This could include anything from playing board games to going for a walk outside – whatever best suits your particular situation. If this is a MAH Companion, their favorite activities, interests, and hobbies will likely already align because the booking portal highlights Companions’ hobbies and interests to review when seeking available Companions in your area.
Be sure to check in with the person receiving companionship throughout this process – ask how they are feeling before, midday, and after the first meeting with their new visitor. Having an outlet for processing feelings after the initial encounter can be beneficial and reassuring during this transitionary period.
Give a Tour of Your Home & Discuss Family Preferences
The most important first step, after your initial introduction, is to give the Companion a tour. Show them around the entire house and explain where everything is located so that they understand where different things go and how to use each item. You should discuss any preferences or routines that you and the person receiving Companionship have established. This way, your Companion can learn about the environment as well as personalized needs or wants that are specific to either of you.
Provide clear verbal instructions as well as written information or reminders on how certain tasks need to be carried out. For example, if there is a specific way laundry needs to be done or an order of household tasks the Companion must complete, it can be helpful to have a weekly schedule written up with these details. If you have a certain set of tasks you need help with for that day, or that week, having a checklist can make sure nothing falls through the cracks and all tasks are completed as expected. This checklist should also include your desired activities, like walks, trips to the store, or to any scheduled social events.
From a communication and safety point of view, you should always have contact phone numbers for family and friends written down on a notepad that’s placed out in the open and easily accessible. It’s helpful to write down the relationship of each person, so that the Companion will know who they’re talking to in case of an emergency. The notepad should also include phone numbers for your local fire department and emergency medical services.
Providing this basic information will help make sure that your Companion is well-equipped on their first day and that everyone involved feels safe, comfortable, and confident from day one.
Showcase Your Loved One’s Personality to Their New Companion
The first introduction is a crucial opportunity to make them feel comfortable when their Companion arrives. It is essential that you show your loved one’s personality to the Companion in order to create an environment that sets the stage for a successful relationship. Taking the time to highlight who they are can help them build trust and familiarity with their Companion right away.
One great way to do this is by introducing your loved one’s favorite things and activities early on. Consider displaying pictures of family members, pets, or friends and make them part of the introduction process. Encourage your loved one to talk to the Companion about who these people and pets are and what they mean to them.
You should also make sure that you emphasize the fact that your loved one has control over how things go each day — and even how the weeks and months unfold — with their Companion present. This helps signal that this isn’t just someone there to serve their needs, but rather someone who’s there to engage in meaningful conversations and activities together. Of course, depending on your loved one’s situation and abilities, you’ll need to adjust the level of control they have accordingly.
You only have one chance to make a first impression, so it’s very beneficial to help ensure it’s as low-key and low-stress as possible. Try making introductions in an informal setting like at mealtime or outdoors during a walk around the neighborhood so it appears more natural than if it were done in a formal setting, such as a living room or study. Remember, during the first introduction, there’s no need to rush anything, take your time.
Be Prepared & Create a Positive Experience to Ensure Your Companion’s Long-Term Success
By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your Companion’s first day on the job is a success. Making sure to set up a welcoming environment and providing all necessary information will help create strong trust and understanding between your loved one and their Companion. By taking care of these details in advance, you can look forward to having a smooth transition into an enjoyable and rewarding partnership in no time.
The Maxim at Home team is here to help
Do you need help with a loved one? Then consider Maxim at Home’s homemaker and companionship services. Our team of friendly, compassionate Companions takes great pride in serving people in their own community who need light assistance with daily chores, some company and conversation, or convenient transportation for errands, appointments, or trips to the store.
Explore our services to learn more about our:
- Homemaker and companionship services
- Easy-to-use scheduling platform
- “Best Value” service pricing
- Only 1-hour service minimum
Sign-up in seconds to enjoy free 24hr access to our on-demand scheduling platform, where you can view our team of vetted compassionate companions.
If you have questions about our services, please feel free to call 1-844-624-5646 to speak to one of our caring service Advisors.
Reference Links:
Loneliness and Social Isolation — Tips for Staying Connected
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/loneliness-and-social-isolation-tips-staying-connected
Non-spouse companions accompanying older adults to medical visits: a qualitative analysis
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6419819/
A Tool to Strengthen the Older Patient-Companion Partnership in Primary Care: Results from a Pilot Study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3945188/