AgeSouth Circle of Friends

A phone call can change someone’s whole day. For many older adults in our community, days go by without a single conversation. Circle of Friends is AgeSouth’s program to change that by connecting seniors who are lonely or isolated with caring volunteers, helpful resources, and support from people who want to know how they’re doing. Why connection matters As we age, our circles can quietly shrink. A spouse passes away. Friends move or lose touch. Driving becomes harder, hearing fades, or a chronic illness makes it tough to get out of the house. Before long, a person who was once surrounded by family and friends can go weeks feeling unseen. Loneliness is more than a feeling. It’s a real health risk. Research has linked long-term isolation to a health risk on par with smoking 15 cigarettes a day. It’s associated with higher blood pressure, heart disease, depression, and an earlier onset of dementia. Older adults who describe themselves as lonely face a greater risk of physical decline and early death. The good news is that connection is powerful medicine. A regular, friendly voice gives someone something to look forward to, a reason to share their stories, and the comfort of knowing that someone will notice if something is wrong. What Circle of Friends offers Friendly Calling. We match each participant with a screened volunteer “friend” for regular phone visits, and in-person visits when appropriate. Over time, these calls grow into real friendships. Support from a social worker. A social worker can help identify needs, connect participants to services, and make home visits when needed. Resources for staying connected. Participants can access workbooks on healthy habits for staying connected, a home-study program and small group calls for managing chronic conditions, free online classes for social get-togethers, health, and learning, online support for family caregivers, and robotic companion pets for people living with dementia. Who can join Circle of Friends is open to adults age 60 and older in Mobile County who live alone or are homebound, have little support from family or friends, or simply would like someone to talk to on a regular basis. You can sign up yourself, or call on behalf of a loved one. Become a Friendly Caller Some of the most meaningful volunteer work happens over the phone. As a Friendly Caller, you’ll be matched with an older adult and spend a little time each week simply talking, listening, and being a steady presence in their life. Volunteers tell us they get as much as they give. You’ll hear stories you won’t find in any history book and pick up wisdom earned over a lifetime. You’ll find real purpose in a commitment that fits around your own schedule, often from the comfort of your home. You’ll build a genuine friendship with someone who looks forward to your call. And you’ll join a community of volunteers who care about the same things you do. You don’t need special training to be a good friend. We’ll screen and prepare you, match you thoughtfully, and support you along the way. Get started To join Circle of Friends, refer a loved one, or volunteer as a Friendly Caller, call AgeSouth at 251-706-4680.