Golden Years Wellness LLC · Waxhaw / Charlotte, NC
Compassionate, therapeutic activities and companion care — brought to your door.
"Find your golden purpose."
As a Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist with a Bachelor's in Recreation Therapy and a minor in Gerontology, Lauren brings clinical expertise to every visit — designing purposeful activities that improve mood, cognition, and quality of life.
CTRS Certified
National board-certified in therapeutic recreation
MoCA Certified
Trained in standardized cognitive screening
560+ Clinical Hours
Hands-on experience at Elderhaus PACE
In-Home Experience
Prior companion care for clients with dementia
Companion Visits
Activity Facilitation
Outdoor & Nature
Cognitive Wellness
Community Reintegration
Maintaining Independence
Aging is one of life's most transformative chapters — and one of the hardest to navigate. You have to rebrand yourself, rediscover your purpose, and find your footing in a new season of life. My passion for the well-being of older adults led me to pursue a Bachelor's degree in Recreation Therapy at UNCW, with a minor in Gerontology.
This past year at Clemson University's Institute for Engaged Aging, I witnessed firsthand the gaps in aging care — the loss of identity, purpose, and a deep desire to stay connected to the world.
I am currently pursuing a master's degree at UNCC in Clinical Mental Health Counseling and a certificate in gerontology. After completion, I will be a licensed therapist specializing in geriatrics. For now, I want to use my passions and expertise to their fullest potential and allow older adults in the area to find themselves and live their golden years to the fullest!
NCTRC Professional Eligibility
National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification · Established 1981
BA Recreation Therapy
UNC Wilmington · Magna Cum Laude, 3.814 GPA · Minor in Gerontology
MA Clinical Mental Health Counseling
UNC Charlotte · In progress · Future licensed therapist specializing in geriatrics
CTRS Certified
Certified Therapeutic Recreation Specialist · National board exam passed 2025
MoCA Certified
Montreal Cognitive Assessment · Trained in standardized cognitive screening
Elderhaus PACE Internship
560+ supervised hours · Developed & implemented therapeutic recreation programs
Research at Clemson University
Institute for Engaged Aging · Literature reviews, health assessments, geriatric research
DoD Warrior Games
160 hours · Adaptive sports support for Veterans & active-duty athletes
CPR / First Aid · OSHA · BBP
Current certifications in safety, bloodborne pathogens, and emergency response
"Finding Lauren to help care for my mother, who suffered from dementia, was truly a gift. She is compassionate, trustworthy, dependable, and deeply caring; not only did my mother adore her and consider her a dear friend, but our entire family grew to love her as well. Her presence brought us such comfort and peace during a very difficult season of our lives."
— Family of a client, Waxhaw, NC
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More reviews coming soon as
Lauren begins her summer practice.
Every visit is tailored to the individual — their interests, abilities, and goals. As a CTRS, Lauren designs purposeful, evidence-based activities that go far beyond simple companionship.
Companion Visits
Meaningful conversation, social engagement, and emotional support for older adults who benefit from consistent, caring connection. Loneliness and isolation have real health consequences — Lauren helps address them.
Activity Facilitation
Therapeutic activities including cognitive games, arts and crafts, music engagement, reminiscence therapy, and light exercise — all adapted to the client's ability level and personal interests.
Outdoor & Nature Activities
Gentle walks, garden visits, park outings, and nature-based therapeutic recreation. Time outdoors is proven to reduce anxiety, improve mood, and support physical health in older adults.
Cognitive Wellness
Evidence-based activities designed to engage and support memory, attention, and executive function. As a MoCA-certified specialist, Lauren tailors activities to each client's cognitive profile.
Community Reintegration
Supported outings and structured social reengagement to help older adults rebuild confidence, rediscover community connections, and participate in activities that give life purpose and joy.
Maintaining Independence
Light assistance with everyday household tasks — organizing, light tidying, errand support, and routine-building — designed to help older adults stay safe, capable, and confident in their own home for as long as possible.
Single Session
$55
per hour
One-time or occasional visits. Ideal for trying out services or scheduling around a family's needs.
Two Hour Session
$80
flat rate per visit
A consistent weekly 2-hour visit. Most clients see the greatest benefit with regular, scheduled sessions.
Extended Visit
$40
per hour (3+ hrs)
Longer visits for community outings, extended activity facilitation, or respite care for families.
Rates are estimates — contact Lauren to discuss your specific needs. No hidden fees.
Whether you're exploring options for a parent, spouse, or yourself — I'd love to hear from you. I'll respond within 24 hours.
Phone
(607) 368-2285
lsaurbaugh@gmail.com
Service Area
Waxhaw / Charlotte, NC
Availability
Starting Summer 2026
Tell me a bit about your situation and what you're looking for — I'll follow up to discuss how I can help.
A glimpse into the activities, outings, and meaningful moments shared during sessions.
Creativity brings joy at every age
Activity Facilitation
Nature soothes and restores the spirit
Outdoors & Nature
Keeping minds sharp and engaged
Cognitive Wellness
Rebuilding confidence in the world
Community Reintegration
Creating together builds connection
Activity Facilitation
Fresh air and movement, every visit
Outdoors & Nature
Helping clients thrive in the home they love
Maintaining Independence
Every relationship built on trust and warmth
Companion Visits
Baking brings back the sweetest memories
Activity Facilitation