Senior Companion Program Volunteers Have Positively Impacted the Lives of Hundreds of Older Adults
“Thank you to Federation. I missed my companion so much during the pandemic. I need her help…I love her and I am very happy to have her back. Thank you.”
This is one of the many comments received by Federation that demonstrate the magnitude of the services provided by our beloved Senior Companion Program volunteers. This cost-effective, life-saving program has enhanced the lives of hundreds of seniors throughout Suffolk County since 2002.
Senior Companion volunteers are ages 55+ and assist frail elderly in their homes by providing friendly visits, socialization, and ongoing support to help decrease the loneliness and isolation affecting vulnerable seniors. Most of our recipients spend their days alone because their children or other caregivers have to work, or because their family members live out of state. Due to the pandemic, many recipients have not been able to attend social activities as they once did, and many have not seen their families in two years due to safety concerns and their inability to travel.
Depending on individual needs, Senior Companions may provide various services, including transportation assistance, light meal preparation, assistance with hobbies and recreational activities, and light household chores. But it is the friendship, love, care, and support they lend to socially isolated seniors that means the most.
It is well documented that social isolation significantly increases a person’s risk of premature death, and the Senior Companion Program is a vital service allowing seniors to remain living in their own homes with as much dignity and independence as possible.