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Senior Friends
"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much."
...Helen Keller
Senior Friends is an innovative visitation program for adults over the age of 60 (ages 55 for developmentally disabled) who are isolated and in need of regular interaction. The program was designed to meet the basic human need for friendship. The barriers of failing health, lack of mobility and a diminishing number of peers make meeting others and maintaining relationships increasingly difficult for some older adults.
Each week, a Senior Friends' visitor meets with the senior to provide companionship and enhance socialization and community involvement. Visitors in the program quickly form bonds with seniors through a variety of shared activities such as playing chess, working on puzzles, bowling, going to the museum, shopping, walking in the park, attending doctor's appointments or going for ice cream.
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WHERE DO SENIOR FRIENDS MEET?
Senior Friends' visitors meet with older adults in their homes, sheltered workshops or in adult day care settings and nursing homes. Easter Seals is committed to meeting the needs of older adults by expanding services; however, currently the program is not available in all counties and there may be a waiting list of residents eager to join the program. |
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WHAT CAN SENIOR FRIENDS DO FOR ISOLATED OLDER ADULTS?
- Provide companionship for those who may feel alone
- Enhance socialization skills
- Build friendships and support systems
- Create links to the community and its resources
- Serve as an advocate to obtain needed benefits and services
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WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO BECOME A SENIOR FRIENDS' VISITOR?
We are always looking for caring and enthusiastic Senior Visitors. Anyone ages 18 and over who is interested in making a positive impact and improving the lives of others is encouraged to be a part of this valuable program. Please call the Akron office at 1.800.589.6834 for an application and for additional program and training information.
WHAT CAN SENIOR FRIENDS DO FOR THE "VISITOR"?
- Develop strong, mutually caring relationships
- Gain satisfaction and pride from performing a valuable service
- Provide a sense of accomplishment from a worthwhile effort
- Receive valuable training opportunities
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HOW IS SENIOR FRIENDS FUNDED?
Funding is generated through contracts with the Area Agency on Aging 10B, Stark County Board of MR/DD, Summit County Department of Job and Family Services, self pay and through private contributions.
WHAT IS THE COST?
Fees are available by calling the Easter Seals Northern Ohio office in your area. A sliding fee scale is available for families who financially qualify. Easter Seals serves all seniors in need, regardless of their ability to pay.
WHERE CAN I GET MORE INFORMATION ABOUT SENIOR FRIENDS?
Persons interested in receiving a visitor or becoming a visitor with Senior Friends should call Easter Seals Northern Ohio's Akron office at 330.836.9741 or 800.589.6834.
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