Frequently Asked Questions

Caddie Companions is a 501(c) nonprofit and as such, there is not cost to the care partner and "player" for participation in the program. Because nonprofit programs depend on funding, volunteers, donations, and local capacity, availability can change over time. Care partners should confirm details with Caddie Companions through www.caddiecompanions.org. If you would like to donate to cover a round of golf or more, please visit https://www.caddiecompanions.org/donate

The program is designed for individuals living with mild Alzheimer's disease or another form of early-stage dementia who can safely participate in a round of golf with the support of a trained volunteer companion.

Whether someone has played for decades or is simply interested in getting back onto the course, the focus is on enjoyment, connection, and staying active—not scorekeeping or competition.

Our expectation is for the caddie to meet the player and their care partner at a course convenient to everyone. In the best case, they play a course familiar to the player as those memories help the experience be successful and fun.

A participant is paired with a volunteer golf companion who walks the course, offers encouragement, helps with the pace of play, and provides companionship throughout the round. The experience is designed to promote enjoyment, physical activity, social connection, and confidence while giving caregivers valuable respite.

Safety is a top priority. Participants are carefully matched with trained companions, and each outing is planned with consideration for the participant's physical abilities, cognitive needs, weather conditions, and golf course environment.

Matching may depend on program criteria, caregiver needs, location, availability, interests, and safety considerations. Caregivers should ask how companions are screened, trained, supervised, and supported, as well as what steps are taken if a match is not the right fit.

While their loved one enjoys several hours on the golf course, caregivers receive meaningful respite—time to rest, attend appointments, run errands, or simply recharge—knowing their family member is engaged in a safe, enjoyable activity.

Sadly, as the disease continues to progress, there may be a time when our program is no longer appropriate for a player. We pride ourselves on communication and transparency and we review every outing to ensure it was successful for both the player and the caddie. If at some point there is a determination that we can no longer support a player, we will offer guidance as the player transitions to more appropriate activities.