Seniors Helping Seniors Through Friendship
Reaching out to Seniors with “Friendly Visiting”
As younger family members leave our communities in search of job opportunities and friends enter care facilities or pass away, many seniors find themselves without a support network. For those seniors who live alone, and particularly those with limited mobility, isolation can become a serious concern. Social isolation and loneliness contribute to depression, anxiety and a number of other mental and physical illnesses. According to Health Canada, between 10 and 15 per cent of seniors suffer from symptoms of depression, many of which can be alleviated with increased social interaction.
If you are aged 50+ and interested in making a difference in the lives of seniors in your community, volunteer today as a Senior Volunteer in Service! This program is designed to match senior volunteers with other seniors in the community who could benefit from a “friendly visit” ether at home or in a care facility. Volunteers provide companionship by playing cards, having tea, sharing conversation, helping seniors with shopping/appointments and taking them to community events. Volunteer mileage is reimbursed through the program and regular workshops are available for volunteers to keep abreast of seniors’ issues and participate in skill development training.
“This program, and the wonderful volunteers who make it possible, are making a real difference in our communities. Many people are doing this kind of volunteer work without even thinking of it as volunteering, and I really encourage them to sign up with the SVIS program and take advantage of the training and peer support network that it offers” comments Chelsea DeGagne, Volunteer Coordinator.
If you are interested in becoming a volunteer OR If you, or someone you know, could benefit from a “friendly visit”, please call:
Chelsea DeGagne, Volunteer Coordinator at 1-877-895-NOSP (6677) or 1-807-854-1321, Ext. 2201. You can also reach DeGagne via email at chelsea.degagne@nosp.on.ca .
MORE INFO
- North of Superior Counselling Programs provide children’s and adult mental health, addiction counselling, and support services to seniors.
- Offices are located in Nipigon, Schreiber, Marathon, Manitouwadge, Geraldton and Longlac
- Learn more about North Superior Counselling Programs
