Thank you for your interest in volunteering with Apart Not Alone!

The goal of Apart Not Alone is to combat social isolation and loneliness among older adults during the COVID-19 crisis. We virtually connect seniors with a young adult who will provide social support and technology assistance during the COVID-19 crisis. Young adults will call to check in on their partner at least once a week to talk. In addition, Apart Not Alone offers technology assistance to help seniors navigate connective technology such as video chat, email, and social media. Access to these technologies will allow seniors to connect virtually with their own family and friends. Technology support will be conducted over the phone and using screen-sharing.

If a delivery need is identified such as grocery shopping or pharmacy pick-up, a delivery will be coordinated using best practices according to the CDC. If the request requires entering the senior’s home, involves health care, or is otherwise outside the scope of Apart Not Alone, community partners will be contacted to assist.

Social isolation among older adults is a serious, ongoing problem in the United States. Loneliness is associated with both physical and mental decline as it increases the risk of depression, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and decreased memory. Prior to COVID-19, loneliness was estimated to impact 1 in 4 seniors; now, with senior centers closed and older adults advised to self-isolate for their safety, the loneliness epidemic is poised to dramatically increase.