Our Mission

Our Mission

The Mission of ElderFriends is to help elders remain independent for as long as possible and to reduce isolation and loneliness among low-income, shut-in elders by pairing them with volunteers who provide companionship, outreach and advocacy. These inter-generational relationships are key to relieving the isolation and loneliness among elders in our community who live alone.

ElderFriends works on the premise that networks of isolated older adults who are still living independently can be expanded and strengthened by properly trained and supported volunteer visitors. Connections to others and to one’s community are just as important to older adults as nursing care and medicines. Such community support helps low-income older adults living alone to maintain physical and mental health and to remain living independently as long as possible.

Engaging trained and supported volunteers to develop friendships with those who are isolated and in need of companionship will strengthen our families and our community.

ElderFriends is designed to address the following Goals and Objectives:

¨ To relieve isolation and loneliness

¨ To help elders to remain independent for as long as possible

¨ To improve people's lives through social interaction

¨ To improve caring interactions between and among children, youth, adults and elders

¨ To look for signs of neglect or abuse of elders and help identify appropriate services to victims

¨ To advocate through community networks that focus on low-income elderly population