New intergenerational program pairs home-bound seniors with Sonoma County volunteers
Many homebound seniors have been isolated due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation. A new program has been created to address this growing concern. With the assistance of the County, the Area Agency on Aging, and funding from the California Department on Aging the Council on Aging is implementing the Intergenerational program. In this new companion lunch program, eligible clients will be matched with a volunteer who will come to their home to share a meal, great conversation and some fun activities. All meals and activities will be provided by the Council on Aging and are free. We hope that by sharing a meal and chatting with these seniors, we will bring a greater sense of purpose and community to their lives. In fact, research shows that seniors who participate in intergenerational activities have fewer trips to the hospital.
If you are a homebound senior age 60 or better and are interested in participating in this program or someone who would like to volunteer to dine with a senior in their home please call or email Noelle Johnson at 707-525-0143 x129 (njohnson@councilonaging.com).
About Council on Aging
Council on Aging Services for Seniors is a private 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization which has been providing services for Sonoma County citizens over the age of 60 since 1966. The area’s beautiful surroundings, safe atmosphere, and senior housing have attracted over 137,000 older adults to this community. In fact, Santa Rosa is ranked 6th in the nation for cities having the highest population over 85 years of age.
While some elders may never require one of our service programs, many of these 137,000 seniors will come to rely on our help at some point in their lives. More Americans are living much longer than ever before, and as the” Baby Boomers” retire, the need for our services will be greater than ever.
Council on Aging provides information and services only for seniors age 60+ in Sonoma County. For more information about Council on Aging, call 707-525-0143. If you are seeking services outside of Sonoma County, you may call Eldercare Locator at 800-677-1116.
