ElderFriends is a volunteer-based friendly visitation program, designed to help keep elders living in the community, in their own homes and remaining independent for as long as possible.  Too often the modern solution to providing care for elders means institutionalizing them in nursing homes.  Not only are nursing homes the most expensive way to care for frail elders, they are typically the one thing they fear most. We have been working in the greater Richmond area in an effort to relieve isolation and loneliness among ‘shut-in’ elders. 

ElderFriends is a service of Family Lifeline, which has seen the benefits of a program like this in promoting the well being of the elderly.  ElderFriends was established in Richmond in Fall 2005.  It was a replicated model of the successful ElderFriends program established in Seattle in 1996 by founding director, Kiersten Ware. ElderFriends is now delivering socialization services to address isolation and loneliness among Richmond’s elder population.  Ms. Ware's work with ElderFriends earned it the NACO 2007 “Acts of Caring” award and the Commonwealth Council on Aging 2007 “Best Practices” award in the category of Senior Safety.

ElderFriends offers a volunteer the unique opportunity to develop inter-generational friendships that are rewarding to all involved.  Hours are flexible - based on the shared relationship between the volunteer and the elder.  We do ask volunteers to commit to visit their elder one time a week for a year - to have time to establish a friendship and engage the elder.  If you have been looking for a special one on one volunteer experience call us at 804-249-5432 for more information.