A simple way to fight loneliness in older adults, one visit at a time.

Loneliness looks different as we age. Losing a spouse or close friend, dealing with mobility or vision changes, giving up a driver’s license or stepping away from a career can all shrink someone’s world quickly. Older adults face higher rates of isolation than younger people, and the fix is often simpler than people expect: more connection.

That’s the idea behind Senior Companionship, a program from our partner Milestone Senior Services.

What is the Senior Companion program?

Through AmeriCorps Seniors in Calhoun and Kalamazoo counties, Milestone matches volunteers over 55 with older adults in the community who could use some company. The relationships tend to go both ways. As Senior Companion volunteer Augusta put it, “It’s a two-way street. It doesn’t just help those being served, it helps those providing the service.”

How does the matching work?

Volunteers are paired with one or more participants, some living at home and some in a partner senior living or nursing facility. Because the program is built around ongoing one-on-one visits rather than one-time check-ins, real friendships tend to form. Volunteers and participants are often close in age too, which gives them a natural starting point.

What does it take to volunteer?

Milestone runs a background check on every volunteer and provides training and resource materials before you get started. Some volunteers may also qualify for a small stipend to help cover time and travel.

How can I get involved?

Milestone is looking for more Senior Companion volunteers to meet the need in our community. If you’re interested, contact Shellie at 269-380-0515 x127 or visit MilestoneSeniorServices.org.

Community partnerships like this one are part of what makes Kalamazoo and Calhoun counties feel like home. If you’re looking for a way to give back, this is a good place to start.