We all need social connections to thrive. Whether it is someone you can share happy news with or a solid shoulder to cry on, the people around us play an essential role in how we live our lives. Without them, our mental and physical health suffers — studies show that loneliness and social isolation can lead to heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline. For the homebound older adults in our community, this risk is very serious. If you live alone, far from friends and family, unable to leave your home safely, what can you do to fulfill your social needs? 

At JFCS, our Older Adult Services department addresses this issue in multiple ways. Regular connections are made with clients through KMOW delivery drivers, friendly visitors, and telephone reassurance callers. Our volunteer department also engages with local schools to provide opportunities for students to connect with our elderly community. While students do not visit our clients in person, we are always looking for new and creative ways to facilitate meaningful intergenerational connections. 

Recently, we introduced a new relationship-fostering program for our student volunteers. Each student uses their artistic talents to create a beautiful, custom-made birthday card for our homebound older adult clients. Although these children and older adults never meet in person, the cards bridge the gap between our youngest and oldest generations. The feedback from our clients has been overwhelmingly positive, with one of them expressing, "Thank you, my friends. All of you are a big help to me in my elderly years. I really appreciate the thought and consideration that went into making my lovely card. It really means a lot to me." 

Positive relationships are a cornerstone of personal happiness, particularly for homebound older adults. We take it as an important responsibility to ensure our elderly clients can lead fulfilling lives at home. We bring these meaningful connections right to their doorsteps, recognizing the profound impact they can have on our clients' well-being.