Many older adults face the risk of social isolation, but this risk is even more pronounced for LGBTQ+ older people. LGBTQ+ elders are twice as likely to live alone, twice as likely to be single, and 3 to 4 times less likely to have children, compared to their non-LGBTQ+ peers.
Friendly visiting programs are a proven way to alleviate this isolation and rebuild communities across generations. The South Florida Friendly Visitor program was modeled on SAGE's highly successful New York City program, founded in 1979 and the first of its kind in the U.S., which matches volunteers from the community with LGBTQ+ elders to form relationships that are mutually rewarding and build community.
HOW IT WORKS:
Friendly Visitor volunteers are carefully screened and fully trained. Those who become Friendly Visitors have made a commitment to at least one year of involvement with the client. They visit once a week for an hour or two and make calls between visits. They also attend supportive and educational meetings every other month.
If you are interested in learning more about the Friendly Visitor program either as a volunteer or a participant, please fill out this interest form and a SAGE staffer will follow up with you.