“It’s very rewarding,” said Sandy, a Senior Connections Plus volunteer. She has been building a connection with Miss C, a resident at Dunn Road Manor, a Lutheran Senior Services Affordable Housing community in Florissant, Missouri.
With a goal of helping combat social isolation and aiding with light housekeeping tasks for older adults on fixed, limited incomes, Senior Connections Plus is designed for participants to meet at least twice per month for a minimum of three months to enable a true relationship to grow.
“The new Senior Connections Plus opportunity was just what I was looking for!” Sandy said. “I like the long-term commitment because one really gets to know the other person. Another plus is that it is very flexible,” said Sandy. Sandy and Miss C find a day and time to visit that meets both of their schedules.
The training and support provided by Senior Connections Plus was another big positive for Sandy. Volunteers receive a two-hour training session and handbook covering topics such as the impact of isolation and loneliness and building a purposeful relationship. “The training was excellent! They covered all the things a volunteer needs to know before volunteering, down to the specifics. And the staff is always available to assist,” said Sandy.
Following her training, Sandy was matched with Miss C, who has resided at Dunn Road Manor for 15 years. She and Miss C began their relationship through conversation to get to know one another. Exploring technology together was a bridge to building their friendship. “She wanted to learn more about what her cell phone could do. I also borrowed a Chrome Book from the office, and we have “played” some on it. I brought my iPad so I could show her what it can do.” Sandy had been an iPad user and wasn’t familiar with Chrome books before her exploration with Miss C. Together they have both grown their technological skills.
“Sandy is here now and showing Miss C how to use a tablet in her apartment! AHHHH! Great to see this connection!” said a Dunn Road Manor service coordinator who observed their interactions.
Over time their comfort has grown. Last month, Miss C asked Sandy to help her do some laundry. Carrying her clothes and linens back and forth was becoming more of a challenge for Miss C. So, the pair went to the building’s laundromat together. “We just talked while the clothes were washing and drying. The next time I went she asked if I would wash a load for her, which I like to do,” said Sandy. “I’ve now shown her how to use her cell phone, an iPad, and helped her with laundry!”
Volunteering for Senior Connections Plus has benefitted both Sandy and Miss C. “I have learned a great deal from volunteering with LSS and Senior Connections Plus. Especially, the importance of companionship for all of us,” said Sandy.
For those seeking a volunteer opportunity that provides continuity, flexibility, and an opportunity to make a meaningful impact in an older adult’s life, Sandy recommends they try Senior Connections Plus. “I have enjoyed visiting my match and I know she enjoys my visits,” said Sandy.
Dunn Road Manor (Florissant, MO) MyImpactPage – Senior Connections Plus (betterimpact.com)
Rose Hill House (Kirkwood, MO) MyImpactPage – Senior Connections Plus (betterimpact.com)
Questions, contact Diane Sinclair at Diane.Sinclair@LSSLiving.org or call 314.373.4071.