Aging Ahead’s Friendly Caller program was launched in 2021 to help address the growing problem of social isolation and loneliness among older adults. According to the National Institute on Aging, about 1 in 4 older adults are socially isolated.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that social isolation and loneliness can pose serious risks to both mental and physical health. That’s where Aging Ahead’s Friendly Caller program comes in. Friendly Caller connects older adults with a trained Aging Ahead volunteer who calls them regularly—usually once a week—for friendly conversation and connection.
Volunteer Barbara says, “My buddy lives alone and both she and I look forward to our calls. At our age, we have plenty of stories to share and things in common. Volunteering with the program gives back to me also!”
“A phone call might seem like a small thing, and it is, but having someone who knows your name, remembers what you talked about last week and looks forward to talking with you again can make a surprisingly meaningful difference,” says Volunteer Coordinator, Lydia Franklin.
If you or someone you know could benefit from receiving Friendly Calls, reach out to Lydia, who can tell you more about the program and connect you with a volunteer. She can be reached at (636)207-0847 or by email: lfranklin@agingahead.org.