The article discusses the increased demand for health companions in Brazil due to an aging population and smaller family sizes, leading to informal hiring practices and potential legislative regulation.
In Brazil, the need for health companions has surged as the population ages and family sizes decrease, creating a greater reliance on caregivers for the elderly. This shift has prompted discussions in Congress about the need to regulate the profession of health companions. Many elderly individuals now require assistance for daily activities, and even younger people are utilizing these services for tasks such as accompanying them during medical procedures and scheduling appointments.
Online platforms like Cronoshare and GetNinja have emerged as popular tools for clients seeking assistance, allowing them to specify their needs and connect with potential health companions. However, the nature of these arrangements remains informal, with no formal contracts in place, and payments are typically made through digital means like Pix. This informal approach raises questions about worker rights and regulations within this growing sector.
As individuals like 56-year-old Girlaine Ferreira navigate their roles as health companions, the lack of formal recognition also presents challenges for both workers and clients. The potential introduction of regulatory measures could help professionalize the field, offering protections for workers and setting standards for care, ultimately benefiting both caregivers and those they assist in an evolving demographic landscape.
