According to The Senior Source Volunteer Ombudsman Charlie Hogge,
“The pandemic has worsened isolation for nursing home residents—individuals who already saw few visitors and experienced loneliness.
“Around 90 elderly residents at a nursing home in Richardson have come to rely on me for friendship and advocacy. As a certified volunteer with the agency’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program, my job is to advocate for quality of life and care of residents in nursing homes. In this role I have visited the center at least once a week for more than 11 years.
“When the pandemic struck last spring – restricting my face-to-face visits – I worked with a social worker at the center and found a way to stay connected. Now I engage with the residents every Friday via Zoom. We started with a small group of residents and have expanded to visits with about 20 residents each Friday.
“This year, The Senior Source’s holiday wish is for more dedicated volunteers who have a heart for older adults, as I do. Anyone with a few extra hours each month and the desire to ensure older adults in long-term care facilities are well-cared for are needed now more than ever. The Senior Source jokes that their second wish would be to clone me!
“For nearly 60 years, The Senior Source has made it a priority to combat isolation and loneliness for older adults. Whether through visits to nursing homes, meaningful volunteer opportunities, classes, trainings, or support groups, The Senior Source understands the impact of closeness and connectivity, both during the pandemic and beyond.
“It does my heart good to know I am making a difference. I’d recommend getting involved to anyone who wants to see a direct impact of the donation of their time.”
* Graphic provided by The Senior Source
