The Companion You Need on Your Journey
to Providing Better Dementia Care
for Your Loved One
Effectively managing the complexities of a loved one’s dementia care requires an experienced partner you can trust. With a 45-year legacy of serving the community, we at Institute on Aging understand that caring for a loved one with dementia or Alzheimer’s can be an overwhelming and emotionally draining experience. We are proud to offer Companioa, a comprehensive program dedicated to aging adults with dementia and their family caregivers. Companioa (come-PAN-yuh) is designed to provide reliable and consistent care and support, ensuring your loved one receives the best care possible.
We offer a range of services, including high-quality and reliable In-Home Dementia Care, dementia-specific daily programming at the Enrichment Center, and our Concierge Client Care. Our team of dementia-trained experts will work with you to learn about your elderly loved one’s strengths, interests, and abilities and explore the best care options to help him or her live the best life possible.
At Institute on Aging, we’re dedicated to empowering adults with disabilities and their families, providing a community of support to help you through this difficult time. With Companioa, you don’t have to go it alone. We’re here to help and support you every step of the way.
Dementia Care Services
Concierge Client Care
Managing the effects of dementia can be complex. Our Concierge Client Care services are specifically designed to provide a highly personalized and elevated level of support, guidance, and comprehensive care coordination. It encompasses three distinct service offerings: Personal Concierge, Caregiver Coaching, and Care Management, with access to other Institute on Aging Services. With our expertise, integrated service offerings, and attention to detail, we aim to ensure that you and your loved one receive the highest level of care, tailored to your unique needs and preferences. Learn more about Concierge Client Care.
Home Care
Our dementia trained and certified home care aides provide a little extra help where you need it the most - at home. Beginning with a comprehensive assessment, we create an individualized plan of care that emphasizes dignity, independence and overall well-being - offering access to the home care services you need, when and where you need them. Learn more about dementia home care services.
The Enrichment Center
Located in the beautiful Presidio, IOA's Enrichment Center offers social, cognitive, and physical activities for individuals living with Alzheimer's, dementia and other neurocognitive impairments. allowing them to remain engaged and connected to the community while providing caregivers a much-needed break. Learn more about the Enrichment Center.
Leadership Team

J. Thomas Briody, MHSc

Stephanie Schmautz

Clara Allen

Alexandra Kaplan

Rebecca Smith-Finlay
Contact us today
Getting Started Is Simple
Companioa starts with giving us a call or chatting with us, filling out our online form, stopping by our Presidio Enrichment Center, or asking us to meet you at your home. We will then work with you to determine your loved one’s needs as well as begin the process of mapping out a personalized Companioa care plan.
We know the first step is getting to know you and your loved one to learn your unique situation. Once your care coach gets to know you both better, he or she will help build out a plan that works for you and your wallet. Through our family of offerings you can customize services to best suit your needs. Call us today to learn more about our offerings.
Companioa Services
If you’re looking for a partner on your journey to providing better care for someone you love with dementia – while also looking for some helpful educational and emotional support for yourself – Companioa is your companion. We’d love to learn about your needs. To get started, fill out the simple form below, or contact us by phone at 415.750.4111
- Bathing and personal care
- Medication assistance
- Transportation
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
- Transfer assistance
- Wheelchair transfers
- Walker assistance
- Companionship
- Client and caregiver matching (language, personality, needs, etc.)
- Able to provide 1:1 care at home or in a facility
- A modern, safe, supportive environment in the beautiful Presidio
- A respite for caregivers, allowing time to recharge
- A connection to community and access to educational resources for caregivers
- Door-to-door transportation
- Daily group exercise
- Mental and intellectual stimulation
- Outdoor excursions
- Art classes
- Personalized daily care
- Homemade meals made with fresh ingredients
- Assistance with getting to the bathroom, walking, and meals
- Priced affordably – ask about our grant assistance program!
- Located at 386 Moraga Avenue in the Presidio
- Coordination of health care and community services
- Medical care coordination and accompaniment to medical appointments
- Assistance with long-term planning
- Caregiver Support Groups
- Regular check-ins
- Interactive education sessions
- Concierge Client VIP services to enhance the overall experience, which can include organizing accommodations or unique experiences that cater to your individual preferences and lifestyle.
What People Say About Companioa Services
Connect with us about Companioa today.
Learn More About Companioa.
To learn more about Companioa services, please fill out the form below. Or, if you prefer, contact us by phone at 415.750.4111.
𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗧𝗶𝗽 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝘅!
Multi-step tasks—like setting the table or making coffee—can be frustrating for someone living with dementia. But breaking them down into smaller, simpler steps can make all the difference.
Try assigning a single, manageable part of the task—like folding napkins or pressing the coffee maker button.
Supporting independence doesn’t have to be all or nothing.
💬 What tasks does your loved one still enjoy doing? Share with us!
#CaregiverTips #DementiaCare #Companioa #MemorySupport #AlzheimersSupport #IOACares #AgingWithDignity

Join us on May 22nd from 4-6pm for a powerful viewing of Facing the Wind, a sixty-minute film that offers an unflinching yet hopeful look into the challenges of dementia care. Witness the strength of mutual support communities as they provide love and connection amidst the isolating realities of Lewy Body Dementia.
📅 Event Highlights
✔️ Documentary Screening
✔️ Q&A with clinicians from Ray Dolby Brain Health on behaviors, medications, and treatments
✔️ Drinks & Refreshments
Registration is required—RSVP via link in our bio by May 19 to reserve your spot.
Let’s support awareness and understanding of this condition together. You are not alone. 💜
#FacingTheWind #LewyBodyDementia #DementiaAwareness #CommunitySupport #InstituteonAging #Dementia #Alzheimers #Memory

When Michele reached her breaking point as a caregiver for her husband with dementia, one phone call changed everything. Through IOA’s Caregiver Coaching program, she found guidance, support, and a renewed sense of hope.
Read Michele’s story, by clicking the link in our bio, and learn how caregiver coaching through Companioa can make a difference.
#DementiaCare #CaregiverSupport #Companioa #AlzheimersSupport #IOACares

Caring for a loved one with dementia can be challenging, but remember, you`re not alone. Here are some quick tips to help you through. Remember, every day may not be easy, but your efforts are incredibly important.
If you found these tips helpful, visit the link in our bio to learn about Companioa, IOA`s comprehensive dementia services program.
#InstituteonAging #Dementia #MemoryCare #Caregiver #Coaching #Tips

Discover effective communication strategies for interacting with individuals with dementia. Join us on March 21st at Institute on Aging`s Enrichment Center for a free talk by the @alzassociation.
Visit the link in our bio to register!
#dementiaawareness #communicationstrategies

Are you caring for someone with dementia? Whether you`re the primary caregiver or offering support, you play an important role in their life. Recognizing and acknowledging this role is the first step towards equipping yourself with everything you need to support them on this journey.
Institute on Aging offers support, resources, and a space to connect with others facing similar challenges.
Check out the link in our bio to join us and start finding the support you and your loved one need.
#Caregiver #Caregiving #CaregiverSupport #Dementia #Alzheimers #Memory #InstituteonAging #Support

Spreading holiday cheer one dance move at a time! 🎄✨
Our lovely participants light up the dance floor with their festive moves. We hope the holiday spirit of dance moves you just as much as our dementia participants!
#holiday #dancing #spreadthecheer #dementia #dementiaparticipants #holidayboogie #instituteonaging

When someone is showing signs of dementia, it’s time to talk. Often, conversations with family about changing behaviors can be challenging and uncomfortable. We are proud to partner with @alzncnv to provide you with this free presentation with tips for breaking the ice with your family so you can address some of the most common issues that are difficult to discuss: going to the doctor for a diagnosis or medical treatment, deciding when to stop driving, and making legal and financial plans for future care.
Visit the link in our bio to register for this free event!
#event #dementia #conversations #tipsandtricks #health #dementiaawareness #alzheimersassociation #alzheimersawareness

☀️ Let the Sun Shine In! ☀️
Did you know natural light is a game-changer for dementia patients? It`s not just about ambiance; it`s a mood lifter and sleep regulator. Dive into our eye-opening article to see why natural light is a vital ingredient in dementia care. 🌼
📖 Visit the link in our bio for the article!
#ElderCare #InstituteOnAging #Dementia #AgingAdults

Get ready to groove and put on your boogie shoes at the Enrichment Center! Join us in the beautiful Presidio for a dance party like no other. Moving and grooving is always welcome!
#dance #danceparty #presidio #sf #sanfrancisco #dementia #enrichment #enrichmentcenter #dementiaawareness #memory #fun #instituteonaging

Spiking our way into a noodle-tastic good time at the Enrichment Center! 🏐💥 Our participants know how to serve up some serious fun with `noodle` volleyball. A day full of laughter, friendly competition, and plenty of good vibes, we love seeing the playful side of our participants!
#Presidio #SanFrancisco #Dementia #Memory #Games #Fun #NoodleVolleyball

We were absolutely thrilled to have our partners from the @ucsf Memory and Aging Center, join us for a mesmerizing live musical flute performance! 🎶🥁 Our Companioa #dementia adult day program participants had a wonderful time humming and even singing along to the enchanting tunes. We can`t wait to create more magical musical moments together! 💥✨ #LiveMusicPerformance #UCSFPartnership #EnchantingFlute #MagicalMoments
