Over one third of older adults in Boston live alone or are separated from their families, leading to feelings of loneliness and social isolation, which is proven to have serious effects on their mental and physical health. Surgeon General issued an advisory on the Epidemic of Loneliness and Social Isolation, reporting that social connection is as critical to our health and well-being as food, water, and shelter. Since 1984, FriendshipWorks has been working to address this issue by matching caring volunteers with elders in need of companionship, support, and assistance throughout Boston, Brookline, Newton, Somerville, and Cambridge. Whether it’s a weekly visit from a Friendly Visitor, completing a household task with a Friendly Helper, a Medical Escort to be there for a medical appointment, the joy of a PetPals visit, or a MusicWorks session, these five programs bring warmth, connection, and friendship into the lives of adults ages 60 and older or 55+ for those with vision or hearing impairment.
