Senior Friendship Centers tackle loneliness in Southwest Florida’s pandemic

Author

Senior Friendship Centers | Florida

Posted on

Mar 01, 2023

Book/Edition

Florida - Sarasota, Bradenton & Charlotte Counties , Florida - Southwest

share-this
Share This

For older adults, loneliness and despair are side effects of COVID-19.

Carol Tapp of Sarasota lives alone and suffers from COPD, arthritis and fibromyalgia. As the pandemic raged on through the summer, Carol watched the food in her pantry slowly disappear, until she was down to scraps. She didn’t have anyone to talk to and didn’t know where to turn.

Carol’s situation is echoed by thousands of older adults in our area who are homebound, a situation that has become even more dire during the COVID-19 pandemic. In Sarasota County alone, more than 40,000 seniors, or about 23% of the population, live alone.

Fortunately, Carol contacted the Senior Friendship Centers’ Friendship at Home program and was assigned a friendly visitor who helped her with grocery shopping and provided conversation and company. This global health crisis has shone a light on an issue that Senior Friendship Centers has undertaken since we were founded in 1973 – senior loneliness is a public health epidemic.

Research published by Brigham Young University reveals that social isolation is more lethal than smoking 15 cigarettes a day. In fact, loneliness is associated with significantly higher rates of heart disease and stroke and a 50% increased risk of dementia, according to a recent report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine. Lonely or isolated older adults report a greater incidence of depression and anxiety and suffer a mortality rate comparable to that linked to smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol and physical inactivity.

When the coronavirus outbreak forced Senior Friendship Centers to close its doors in March, seniors in our programs were left bereft of their usual social opportunities, lectures, classes, exercise programs, and regular medical/dental care.  Fortunately, more than 100 volunteers stepped up to help with the distribution of essential supplies and food, to make reassurance calls, deliver groceries, provide telehealth, lead and participate in virtual support groups and activities, and more.

And as the world spun with closures and shutdowns, SFC mobilized – recognizing that our most vulnerable population would need our help more than ever. More than 120,000 nutritious meals have been served through our home-delivered meals program so far this year – a 454% increase over the same timeframe last year.

We are already seeing seniors’ mental health needs on the rise and are offering supportive programming. Our program outcomes consistently show participants feel stronger, more resilient, and more optimistic about their future.

The founder of Senior Friendship Centers, Brother Geenen, famously said that “isolation and loneliness are the malnutrition of the elderly.” Now, loneliness is not just a concept faced by “others.” As a result of social distancing, we’ve all experienced some form of isolation and the devastating effects that it can have on our minds, health and wellbeing.

We are all on this journey of aging, and if you’d like to be a part of the solution for seniors in Southwest Florida, visit friendshipcenters.org(opens in new window).

Erin McLeod is president & CEO of Senior Friendship Centers Inc.

Other Articles You May Like

Prevent the Crisis

Hello!What if you could prevent the emergency instead of reacting to it? Most long-term care decisions dont come from thoughtful planning they come from panic.A fall, a hospitalization, or a sudden cognitive decline forces families to scramble for support, often leading to costly, full-time care options like assisted living or home health services.But what if there was a better way? A way to act early, avoid burnout, delay decline, and even prevent crises altogether?Thats the power of adult day!A Different Kind of Long-Term CareMost people associate long-term care with nursing homes, assisted living or 24/7 in-home care services that often enter the picture after something has already gone wrong.These are reactive solutions: many wait until Mom is found wandering down the wrong street, or Dad fell and cant get off the floor, before making a move.Adult day care flips that model on its head.Its a proactive approach designed to support older adults and their caregivers before things reach a breaking point. It bridges the gap between independence and full-time care, keeping seniors safe, active, and connected while giving family caregivers the critical relief they need.The Hidden Cost of WaitingWaiting until a crisis hits isnt just stressful its expensive.Emergency room visits, rehab stays, and hospitalizations cost thousands. Family caregivers are often forced to . . . (click here to read the full article).Many Blessings,Kris Chana, FounderActivAge

Comfort, Convenience, and Care Two Exceptional Listings in Pointe Royale, Fort Myers

Are you looking for the perfect home base while visiting a loved one in assisted living, independent living, or memory care in the Fort Myers area? I have two beautiful condo listings in the sought-after Pointe Royale community that offer the ideal blend of comfort, convenience, and luxury. Just Listed Pointe Royale Area Condominium 1900 Virginia Avenue #1301, Fort Myers, FL 33901 $550,000 | 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2025 sqft Status: ActiveWelcome to paradise! This stunning high-rise condo has been newly updated with luxurious, high-end finishes throughout. Designed for those who seek high-class living in a vibrant waterfront community, this residence is perfect for family members who want a serene and stylish place to stay while spending time with loved ones nearby. Enjoy sweeping views, a gated community, and close proximity to downtown Fort Myers. MLS# 225034585Under Contract Pointe Royale Area Single Family Home 1900 Virginia Avenue #103, Fort Myers, FL 33901 $525,000 | 2 Bed | 2 Bath | 2025 sqft Status: PendingParadise awaits in this beautifully renovated condo that blends modern luxury with urban convenience. Located in the heart of downtown Fort Myers, this home offers waterfront views, high-end features, and the comfort of a secure, well-maintained community. This property is already pending, but similar opportunities come up frequently!MLS# 225008990Whether youre visiting family in care or looking to downsize and sell your home to transition into a residential care community, Im here to help guide and support you every step of the way. Know someone who might be interested in these listings or needs help navigating a move into senior living? Lets connectId love to share more details and provide compassionate, professional assistance.Warm regards, Amy Admire Heystek Licensed Florida Realtor (239) 600-4423 amy.admire@floridamoves.com 7950 Dani Dr. #125 Fort Myers, FL 33966 "Because Customer Service Still Matters"

What No One Tells You About Choosing the Right Senior Living Community

Choosing a senior living community for a loved one is more than just a practical decisionits an emotional journey. The process often comes with a mix of urgency, confusion, and concern. Families want to ensure their loved one is not only safe and cared for but also happy, comfortable, and surrounded by the right level of support. With so many options available, understanding what truly matters can help you make a decision that brings peace of mind for everyone involved.One of the most critical first steps is determining the level of care your loved one needs. Senior living communities are not one-size-fits-all. Options can range from Independent Living and Assisted Living to Memory Care, Residential Care Homes, and Skilled Nursing. Its important to evaluate both current and future needs to ensure the community can continue providing adequate care as health conditions evolve. A proper assessment of these services will give you clarity on whether the community is equipped to meet your loved ones requirements now and down the road.Location is another key factor thats often underestimated. Being close to family can make all the difference. Frequent visits help maintain strong emotional bonds and allow you to stay actively involved in your loved ones well-being. A community near family members offers both comfort and convenience, ensuring that support is never far away.Understanding the cost of senior living is equally essential. Beyond the base rent, there are often additional fees that can add up quickly, such as charges for different levels of care, medication management, incontinence support, and community or entrance fees. Future increases should also be considered. Having a clear financial picture can prevent surprises and help you determine whether the community is both affordable and sustainable over time.Lifestyle is another factor that deeply affects a residents happiness. Some communities focus on vibrant, social living with a full calendar of activities, while others offer a more serene and quiet environment. It's important to match the community vibe to your loved ones personality, interests, and preferences. A good lifestyle fit ensures theyll not only be cared for but also truly enjoy day-to-day life.Safety and security should be top priorities. Ask about emergency response systems, trained staff on site 24/7, secure building access, and disaster preparedness. Each state regulates and inspects senior living communities, and those reports are often publicly available. Knowing that your loved one is in a safe, secure environment brings invaluable peace of mind.Don't overlook the importance of services and amenities, either. Offerings such as housekeeping, dining, transportation, fitness centers, on-site medical care, and social programming can make a world of difference in the quality of life. These extras enhance comfort, encourage independence, and help residents stay active and engaged.Lastly, always tour communities in person. A brochure or website cant show you what daily life looks like. When you visit, you can speak directly to the staff, observe the residents, explore the environment, and get a gut feeling about whether this is a place where your loved one will thrive. Its a great idea to visit more than once and at different times of the day to get a complete picture.The good news? You dont have to go through this alone. Searching for the right senior housing can be stressful, overwhelming, and time-consuming, but working with a professional can change that. By partnering with us, youll have compassionate experts by your side. We guide you through every step of the journey, offer valuable insights, and save you countless hours of research. Most importantly, we help ensure that you and your loved one make the most informed and best decision possible.Let us take the stress off your shoulders. Contact us today at 941-275-2914 to discover how smooth, supported, and empowering this journey can truly be.

Local Services By This Author

Senior Friendship Centers

Adult Day Services 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, Florida, 34236

Senior Friendship Centers is a nonprofit organization that operates a network of centers across Southwest Florida, catering to the needs of individuals aged 50 and older. With locations in Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, Lee, and Collier Counties, Senior Friendship Centers offers a variety of services and programs designed to enhance the health, well-being, and social engagement of older adults.Program areas provided by Senior Friendship Centers include:Senior Activity Centers: Offering a range of recreational and social activities to promote physical and mental well-being.Adult Day Services: Providing daytime care and support for older adults, including those with cognitive or physical impairments, while offering respite for caregivers.Caregiver Support: Offering resources, education, and assistance to individuals caring for aging family members or loved ones.Nutrition & Dining: Providing nutritious meals and dining opportunities for seniors to support their overall health and well-being.Lifelong Learning: Offering educational and enrichment programs to promote continued learning and personal growth among older adults.Resources for Aging: Providing information, referrals, and support services to help seniors navigate various aspects of aging and community resources.With multiple locations and a range of services tailored to the diverse needs of older adults, Senior Friendship Centers serves as a vital resource for seniors and their families in Southwest Florida.

Senior Friendship Center

Support Groups & Services 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, Florida, 34236

People Helping People is at the Heart of our MissionOur Success is Built on a Network of VolunteersSince 1973, Senior Friendship Centers volunteers have worked more than 1.7 million hours, with an in-kind value of over $49 million. Our volunteers are greeters, teachers, instructors, servers, technology experts, musicians, friendly visitors for the homebound, and more. They affirm our belief that when people give part of themselves to help others, they set in motion a continuum of compassion that extends beyond ourselves, to our neighbors, our community, and the world.How Do You Become a Volunteer at Senior Friendship Centers?A volunteer application can either be completed online or printed and then dropped off/mailed in. After the application has been received, you will have an opportunity to learn about current organizational needs and opportunities before selecting the area that most appeals to you. Please choose one of the following ways to fill out the form.

Senior Friendship Centers

Senior Activities 1888 Brother Geenen Way, Sarasota, Florida, 34236

Senior Friendship Centers is a nonprofit organization that operates a network of centers across Southwest Florida, catering to the needs of individuals aged 50 and older. With locations in Sarasota, Charlotte, DeSoto, Lee, and Collier Counties, Senior Friendship Centers offers a variety of services and programs designed to enhance the health, well-being, and social engagement of older adults.Program areas provided by Senior Friendship Centers include:Senior Activity Centers: Offering a range of recreational and social activities to promote physical and mental well-being.Adult Day Services: Providing daytime care and support for older adults, including those with cognitive or physical impairments, while offering respite for caregivers.Caregiver Support: Offering resources, education, and assistance to individuals caring for aging family members or loved ones.Nutrition & Dining: Providing nutritious meals and dining opportunities for seniors to support their overall health and well-being.Lifelong Learning: Offering educational and enrichment programs to promote continued learning and personal growth among older adults.Resources for Aging: Providing information, referrals, and support services to help seniors navigate various aspects of aging and community resources.With multiple locations and a range of services tailored to the diverse needs of older adults, Senior Friendship Centers serves as a vital resource for seniors and their families in Southwest Florida.