Lonely older people gain company from volunteer visitors

Lonely older people gain company from volunteer visitors

Lonely or socially isolated older people may be only a phone call away from arranging to have a regular visitor.

In New Zealand last year, Age Concern’s 2300 volunteer visitors collectively made more than 75,000 visits and 15,000 supportive phone calls, through the charitable organisation’s Accredited Visiting Service (AVS), to older people wanting more company.

Age Concern is using National Volunteer Week to acknowledge and celebrate the contribution its volunteer visitors make in their communities throughout the country.

AVS provides lonely and socially isolated people with friendship, companionship and connections with the community, through volunteer visitors who provide regular contact each week.

Age Concern New Zealand chief executive Ann Martin says with more than 50,000, or about 8%, of people over 65 identified as chronically lonely or socially isolated, the issue is serious.

“It is as big a health risk as smoking, but with nowhere near the same level of funding to address it.

“The Accredited Visiting Service is an effective response to the situation, as well as a prime example of the positive difference volunteers can make, even if it’s just calling in to chat over a cup of tea or coffee or going out together for a drive or a walk.

“Nearly half of our volunteer visitors are over 65 - and some are over 85. They do a marvelous job helping us in our task of serving the needs of older people.”

Ms Martin says those who receive the service are happier, healthier, more independent and better able to connect with their community, while the volunteer visitors also benefit from the valuable interaction.

“Older people are some of New Zealand’s most active volunteers and are absolutely essential to the workings of many community organisations. At least one third of people over 65 are involved in voluntary work.”

Ms Martin says volunteering can also be a great way to get your foot in the door to paid employment.

“Our volunteers get experience working in or for a non-profit organisation, up-skilled and a reference, making it a win-win situation.”

For more information or to find your nearest Age Concern Accredited Visiting Service, visit www.ageconcern.org.nz

ENDS

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