Supporting Older Adults Through Healthcare Visits: The Impact of Companions

A recent survey highlights the significant role that companions play in enhancing healthcare experiences for older adults. According to data from the University of Michigan's National Poll on Healthy Aging, a substantial portion of individuals aged 50 and above bring a friend or family member to their medical appointments, including virtual visits. In the past year, 38% had a healthcare companion attend at least one appointment, and 4% specifically participated in telehealth sessions with them. Conversely, 34% had accompanied someone else, with 4% attending their loved one's telehealth visit. Most older adults (92%) found the presence of a healthcare companion helpful, with nearly all caregivers (99%) recognizing the positive impact they had.

Healthcare companions support patients by asking questions, clarifying medical advice, assisting with follow-up actions, and providing emotional or mobility support. Their involvement tends to improve communication with healthcare providers and the overall quality of care, with 83% of in-person or virtual appointment attendees feeling more comfortable sharing health information, and 79% better able to follow medical instructions.

The poll also reveals demographic trends: spouses or partners are the most common companions, cited by over 70% of those who brought someone, followed by adult children. Women are slightly less likely than men to bring someone along, but more likely to act as a companion themselves. Those with mobility or health issues are more inclined to have a companion, highlighting the importance of support for vulnerable populations.

However, a majority of older adults (62%) do not routinely bring a health companion to appointments. Reasons vary from believing they don’t need help to not wanting to be a burden or lacking available support. Experts suggest healthcare systems could do more to encourage the inclusion of companions, both in-person and via telehealth, by creating supportive environments and offering options for patients without someone to accompany them.

Overall, encouraging the involvement of healthcare companions can substantially improve health management, especially for those with complex needs, and foster more effective healthcare interactions for older adults.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-pairing-health-older-adults-poll.html