The companion's role: agree on the details before the trip

Agreeing in advance helps divide tasks and avoid misunderstandings. Ask the patient what kind of help they prefer, and respect their choices and privacy.

Decide who keeps the bookings, who tracks appointments and expenses, and who updates the family with the patient's permission. Gather questions before appointments, and write down the answers as the treating team explains them.

Ask the hospital about the rules for companions staying, visiting hours and what's available for them. Plan time to rest and to swap tasks if there's more than one companion.

Don't share reports, photos of the patient or details of their condition just because you're accompanying them. Get their consent for anything posted, and use the private family circle for permitted updates instead of public posts.