What is a Companion Caregiver?

Wondering what is a companion caregiver and how to become one? If you’re interested in exploring this part-time job that gives back, you’ve come to the right place. Read on to learn more about how to get started, where you’ll work, and why companion caregivers love what they do.

Companion caregivers for Papa, called Papa Pals, help people in their own neighborhoods. They support older adults, seniors and families with things like companionship, help around the house, shopping, and transportation. They don’t provide medical care or personal care.

Companion caregivers are needed in communities across the country and there’s no better time to start doing this important work. Being a Papa Pal means making a difference. You will do what technology can’t — offer a real human connection.

All Papa Pal visits begin in the homes of the people they support, our Papa members. Depending on the type of visit planned, Pals and members can stay at home or get out and about. The focus is on companionship — enjoying a conversation, catching up, and having some social time together.

For example, Pals can be walking and exercise companions, encouraging someone to get outside. They also offer car rides to help people get to important appointments, as well as help with running errands and light housekeeping. They can take care of the small things that make a house or apartment feel more like home.

Tech-savvy Pals can also choose to teach basic technology to members. For example, they can demonstrate how to use tablets and smartphones, as well as apps like YouTube, FaceTime and Messenger. By sharing what they know, they help older adults, seniors and families stay more connected. They can help people of all ages feel less isolated.

Companion caregivers choose their own work schedules and decide how many hours they work each week. It’s a flexible gig job that’s ideal for people who want to earn extra income — and for anyone who wants control over their work hours. Some Pals work 4 or 5 hours a week while others choose to work more than 20 hours a week.

Companion caregivers earn an hourly base rate, plus bonuses (rates vary by location). With bonuses, many Papa Pals earn $20 an hour or more. Plus, Papa reimburses you for any car rides (transportation visits) you provide.

No, companion caregivers aren’t nurses and they don’t provide any medical or hands-on care. Their focus is on companionship.

There is a different category of jobs that provide medical and personal support, including home health aides (HHA), certified home health aides (CHHA) and certified nursing assistants (CNA). Those roles require extra levels of training, certification and licensing.

Kind, friendly, reliable, helpful, compassionate: These are just a few of the words that describe great companion caregivers. Most importantly, all are dedicated to providing much-needed support to their fellow community members.

Companion caregivers brighten the day for people in their communities. By offering companionship and support, they help people feel less lonely. With a few hours a week, they can make a difference. 

It’s easy to apply online and get started working as a Papa Pal. The application process takes about 1 week.

What are you waiting for? Start your application.

We look forward to welcoming you to the team!