“I Have A Friend� Bring a little sunshine to a senior’s life! Too many seniors feel lonely and isolated.
sharing life By Laurie Black A little chill in the morning air makes me excited for the coming fall weather and foliage. We all need something to look forward to whether it is a change in the seasons, a special event, a favorite holiday, or even a simple visit from a friend. Judy Scheibe and her senior friend, Jeanne, always look forward to time together and were thrilled when they could begin visiting again in-person. Judy explains, "When the pandemic happened, we were not able to have in-person visits. We kept in touch with phone conversations, cards, and occasional text messages and discussed how the situation was affecting our lives and the mood and condition of the country. When some restrictions were lifted, we resumed in-person visits and social distanced, wearing masks. We meet at a table in her building's library area and get down to some serious weekly dominoes playing! I think I have won only once! She is a smart and strategic player! Before we begin, Jeanne always prepares the table, wipes it down with disinfectant, and has hand sanitizer handy so we can have a safe visit. We are pretty used to the protocol now and are so relieved we can share each other's company in-person again." Judy has been with the Senior Visitors Program since 2012. Judy has a long history of working with seniors. She has been involved with the Alzheimer's Association for many, many years. Judy says, "I currently volunteer with the local Alzheimer's Association, and still help facilitate support groups. I will always be involved in that endeavor, for as long as I can be of help. I am willing to help seniors in the community in any capacity that I can." Judy continues, "The Senior Visitors Program seemed like a good fit. I knew there was a need for senior companionship in the community, and felt I could make a difference in someone else's life, while enriching my own. I
visited my first senior in her home for over five years. Each week we would play a variety of games, share stories and laugh together. It was such a positive experience, and she kept commenting on how much she liked to keep her brain challenged and active!" Judy and Jeanne have been visiting together now for almost a year. Jeanne says, "This volunteer program is very special. I have many episodes that are stressful. Judy gets me on an even keel and I stay calm. We spend the first part of our time together talking. She listens, comments and suggests. All are helpful. We tried playing several games together until we found one to satisfy both of us. We play a simple game of dominoes. Judy has to help me sometimes. She is very patient and kind." Judy says of Jeanne, "She is a delightful person, and we never run out of things to talk about. She has lived a very full and adventuresome life and has shared many stories with me. She has a gentle soul and a sentimental heart, yet speaks her mind boldly. She willingly rolls with the punches of life and is grateful for such a fulfilled life. She deeply loves her family and stays in close contact with them. I thoroughly enjoy and look forward to our visits." When I asked Judy what surprises her most about being a volunteer she shared, "I enjoy the anticipation of the visit. I never know what will transpire when I arrive - or what the topic of conversation will be. Every visit has its own "personality." What often surprises me is the length of the visits. I can't believe how fast the time goes - a couple of hours can zip by in no time!" Judging by their enthusiastic smiles, Judy and Jeanne give each other great friendship and much to look forward to!
www.donatelifevirginia.org 10
October 2020
Front porch fredericksburg
YOU can make a difference by volunteering to visit a senior in the Fredericksburg area. Volunteer training is provided & no special skills are required.
Do you have some time to share with a senior in our community? Can you be that friend that someone looks forward to visiting with? Call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2 2704 or visit mhafred.org. Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg. Laurie Black is the Administrative Assistant for the Senior Visitors Program
The Senior Visitors Program is a FREE community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg. Visit mhafred.org or call 540-371-2704
