VILLAGE CONNECTOR EXPERIENCE
USA.
Program Description
“…safely break the monotony of staying physically distant…”
“Before the pandemic and now, older adults experience social isolation at a level that poses a significant risk to their mental and physical health. With the suspension of regular opportunities for social interaction such as community center outings, church services, salon/barber appointments, and doctor visits, older adults feel mandated seclusion even more keenly, demonstrating just how much of an issue social isolation is among older adults.”
-jcgfdn.org
Outreach calls to seniors are made by Village Connector Experience ambassador volunteers.
During outreach calls seniors can discuss interests, have short story readings, tea times or exercise or listen to music with ambassadors.
Ambassadors encourage older adults to reach out for needed services and opportunities to socially engage in online activities.
Volunteers are trained in active listening and conversation techniques geared towards older adults.
Outreach can provide isolated seniors with a renewed sense of value and validation.
The Village Connector Experience can help with:
- Decreasing elderly isolation
- Providing a friendly voice
- Giving reassurance
- Remembering a birthday
- Arranging virtual tea and coffee times
- Engaging in short story readings
- Receiving Greeting cards or surprise packages deliveries
The progress of elderly in the program is monitored monthly to ensure success in decreasing isolation and improving quality of life.
The Juanita C. Grant Foundation fights ageism and advocates and conduct research to improve the quality of life for seniors.
source: jcgfdn.org, ncoa.org
Aging Programs
Senior Health
Elderly Depression & Mental Health Programs