Seniors are at the highest risk of developing more serious illness from COVID-19 and are being asked to be the most vigilant about social distancing. But, with Council on Aging’s new Caring Connections program, loneliness doesn’t have to be a side effect of COVID-19.
Caring Connections matches volunteers with tri-county seniors who would appreciate a weekly phone call and camaraderie.
“Our new Caring Connections program offers two direct benefits to isolated seniors,” states Council on Aging Executive Director Susan Rotella. “The program provides seniors with a meaningful and consistent connection with a local community member. It also doubles as a safety check on their well-being, providing peace of mind to participants and their families.”
Caring Connections volunteers provide companionship and social contact to older adults. The special relationship between a client and a volunteer may last well beyond this time of social and physical distancing. What’s more, social interaction is known to help older adults to maintain healthy, independent living. All Caring Connections volunteers are trained and background-checked.
Caring Connections is designed to support seniors 60+ who may be living alone or have limited family support or limited contact with people on a day-to-day basis. It’s a great way to make new friends during the pandemic. The program is available to older adults in Deschutes, Jefferson, and Crook counties.
If you are a senior interested in joining the Caring Connections program or know an older adult who would be a good fit for the program, please visit https://www.councilonaging.org/find-help/caring-connections/ to learn more about the program or call Council on Aging at (541) 678-5483.
You can also listen to Council On Aging’s Denise LaBuda talk about the program here: https://ktvz.com/community/community-billboard/2021/01/21/council-on-aging-of-c-o-launches-caring-connections-weekly-calls
Council on Aging launches program connecting isolated seniors with phone calls
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