Senior Companions

Senior Companions of South Dakota is a volunteer program that provides in-home assistance and respite care to the elderly and disabled in more than 50 communities across South Dakota. The program has been called one of South Dakota's most positive senior programs. It allows low- income, healthy volunteers an opportunity to provide companionship and in-home assistance to those who need help to live independently.
Senior Companion activities might include:
♦ companionship through visits
♦ transportation
♦ meal planning and preparation
♦ light housekeeping
♦ playing cards
♦ reminiscing or just enjoying the friendship of a peer.
Senior Companion volunteers receive an hourly stipend, mileage reimbursement, meal allowances and other benefits. These benefits do not reduce any governmental assistance and are not taxable.
The Senior Companion is valuable in the care and support of our clients, especially in our rural communities. There is no charge for our services to the client or a client's famiy. Clients report that Senior Companions help prevent or delay long-term care placement, increase the client’s ability to live alone, reduce loneliness and isolation, and reduce stress levels.  
Call Carol at (605) 721-8884 or email bhsrcompanion@rushmore.com for more information.