It has been almost three years since my mother Alma moved into a long- term care home. Mom moved into our family home after several falls living on her own as a widower. My husband and I made the decision to commit to providing her with a “home away from home” in our house with all seven of us. It was a decision filled with much love for a woman who had devoted her life to caring for her own family. She remained with us 8 years until we could no longer manage the amount of care she needed.
One of the many things Mom valued was seeing and speaking with her friends. As an active member of her parish community, she had nurtured relationships over the years which became so important to her, especially after she lost her mobility. Despite the fact she lived with her family, she anticipated a call once a week from one of her long time friends. I witnessed a complete transformation in her countenance including her self-esteem and self-worth after a call with a renewed confidence and joy.
What was it about that phone call, that connection she made with someone other than her family that sparked something within her? Could it be that deep within each person young or old, there is a need to still be recognized, appreciated and sought after in a way that makes someone feel a sense of dignity for who they are?
My name is Suzanne Lozinski and I am the Program Coordinator for the Community of Hope Outreach: Connecting With Seniors Program. It is a simple yet effective way to reach seniors who otherwise spend their day with little to no human interaction. In my experience as a volunteer these past few months, I have witnessed first-hand the change that takes place with a senior who receives a call. Repeatedly, I hear phrases like, “I am so happy to hear your voice today” or “this weekly call means so much to me, especially with my depression and loneliness”.
This calling service is for persons aged 55+ who may be socially or physically isolated and are looking for support or a friendly person to talk to. It provides regular check-ins by phone or zoom with seniors who may not be able to receive an in-person visitor. Each volunteer must complete a screening form, as well as provide a vulnerable person’s police check before making a connection with a senior. Training is provided online with an option to leave the program at any given time.
I am so grateful for the opportunity to work alongside of the Director of Compassionate Community Care, Kathy Matusiak-Costa and many others who work tirelessly and selflessly to promote initiatives like this. If I hadn’t experienced first hand what it means for a senior to make a connection with a volunteer, I would not have known the enormous difference it has in their lives. It is as rewarding making the call as it is for the senior receiving the call. We are truly making a difference one senior at a time!
For more information on the initiative: https://www.compassionatecommunitycare.org/calling-service