Loneliness & Isolation in Seniors – Why TeleCare is So Important
As we age, our social connections often diminish for a variety of reasons. Many individuals over the age of 65 live alone, lacking regular companionship. Research shows that loneliness and social isolation pose serious risks to both physical and mental health. Furthermore, social isolation has been linked to higher rates of elder abuse and victimization.
One of the most effective ways to reduce isolation, health risks, and victimization is through daily contact, such as a telephone reassurance call.
“Your phone calls mean so very much to me. I really enjoy each and every person I talk to. Thank you, thank you, thank you!” – Peg, TeleCare Client
“If not for your support I’d been in the hospital now. It’s so nice to know people care about you.” – Richard, TeleCare Client
“Your calls are the reason I get up and dressed in the morning. When you call I want to be able to report what I’ve done so far in my day.” – Marilyn, TeleCare Client
What is TeleCare? – A Caring Connection & Peace of Mind
TeleCare is a FREE telephone reassurance program that provides daily connections to support. This program complements caregiving services already in place.
Our trained Reassurance Specialists make friendly calls designed to:
- Reduce isolation, loneliness, and depression
- Promote independence for clients in their homes
- Provide comfort and peace of mind for families
Specifically, TeleCare offers:
- Emotional support and a friendly daily check-in
- Medication reminders
- Well-being checks
- Temporary support following hospital discharge
Clients benefit from knowing someone will contact them regularly, while families gain peace of mind that their loved ones are being checked on daily. Additionally, each client has a safety plan in place, with a designated contact who will be alerted if the client cannot be reached.
Emotional support and a friendly check-in
Medication reminders
Well-being checks
Temporary support upon hospital discharge
TeleCare provides clients with the comfort of knowing that someone will contact them on a regular basis. It also offers families the peace of mind that their loved ones are being checked on daily. Each client has a safety plan in place and a designated contact is alerted if we are unable to reach a client by telephone.
TeleCare’s Impact
Though the impact of connection is hard to measure, TeleCare is thrilled to share the following statistics:
13+ Years of TeleCare Service
11+ Counties Reached
38+ Referral Sources partnering with us
100+ Clients Supported in 2024
237 Cards sent to brighten days in 2024
34,000+ Calls made in 2024
71,000+ Hours of care provided Connection that uplifts, support that lasts.
Want Someone to Call You?
Maintaining social relationships can become increasingly challenging with age. Factors such as the loss of a spouse or close friends, retirement, or changes in health or mobility can contribute to feelings of isolation.
TeleCare is here to help clients overcome these barriers by fostering healthy social relationships that make them feel valued and connected.
- Availability: TeleCare calls are made 365 days a year between 7 AM and 10 PM.
- Personalization: Call times and frequency are tailored to each client’s needs and preferences.
Please note: Due to high demand, certain time slots, particularly mornings, mid-mornings, and evenings around dinner time, may have a waiting list.
If you or someone you know would like to learn more about TeleCare, please contact us at 315.218.1931 or email [email protected]. You can also complete brief online form to have someone follow up with you by phone.
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Program Resources
Want to be a TeleCare Volunteer?
TeleCare offers a meaningful and flexible volunteer opportunity where you can make a real difference in someone’s life. Volunteers play a vital role in keeping clients connected to their community by providing friendly, caring calls.Our volunteers are:
- Trained and supported by staff
- Dedicated to creating positive, meaningful interactions
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Essential to ensuring clients feel valued and cared for
Each call is an opportunity to brighten someone’s day and foster a sense of connection and community.
Volunteer Qualifications:
- Attend orientation and training sessions
- Build a friendly, caring relationship with seniors over the phone
- Demonstrate excellent active listening skills
- Commit to at least two shifts per month for a minimum of six months
If you’re interested in volunteering, please complete our online application or reach out for more information by emailing [email protected].
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