Eskaton Lifts the Spirits of Lonely Seniors One Phone Call at a Time
September 10, 2018
SACRAMENTO, CA–For more than two decades, Eskaton, a nonprofit organization serving seniors for 50 years, has reached out to homebound and isolated seniors via its Telephone Reassurance program. The program consists of volunteers who contact seniors to check up on them and provide an opportunity to socialize.
“Older people who are lonely are more likely to develop dementia than their more socially connected peers. In fact, studies show loneliness has physical effects that are among the most problematic in modern medicine,” said Linda Whiteside, Telephone Reassurance program manager with Eskaton. “Social connections formed between volunteers and the 700 Telephone Reassurance participants go a long way to reduce health risks and bring peace of mind to seniors and their family members.”
To date, Eskaton volunteers have made more than 1.6 million phone calls. Ben, a senior who benefits from the program, said, “I am so grateful that someone is calling me every day and checking on me. It lifts my spirits to know someone cares.” Juanita, another participant, added, “Telephone Reassurance is a lifesaver for me. I was very lonely, thank you so much!”
To sign up a senior that would benefit from the Eskaton Telephone Reassurance program, or for those interested in volunteering, call 916-334-1072 or 866-ESKATON. Eskaton has dozens of volunteer opportunities for people of all ages, from students to retirees.
“Come help us make a difference in the lives of older adults,” concluded Whiteside. “For some seniors, a call from one of our volunteers is the only conversation they’ll have in a day.”
The Sacramento region is home to Eskaton, a nonprofit senior care provider offering innovative housing, healthcare and social services.