i have a friend: lunch buddies

“I Have A Friend”

LUNCH BUDDIES By Laurie Black

When I first met Bob (pictured) to talk to him about joining the Senior Visitors Program, I was impressed by his positive and gracious manner as he spoke modestly of his career and accomplishments. Though Bob was a world traveler, he told me, "At this point, I would simply like someone to talk to and have lunch with." In April, Bob was introduced to Senior Visitors Program volunteer, Steven Metzler. Steven and Bob now enjoy weekly conversations over lunch. Steven says, "Bob and I meet each Friday for a late breakfast (lunch). We usually go to the Lafayette Diner where everybody knows Bob! We enjoy a plate full of eggs and bacon and interesting conversation. I enjoy hearing Bob's stories of what he has encountered during his life. He always seems to be positive and upbeat and really brightens my Fridays. Bob is a fascinating individual. He had an extremely interesting international career and has so many stories to share. I enjoy hearing each of them!" Bob says, "We have a very pleasant lunch every time, talking about a full range of things. The waitresses recognize both of us there." Bob went on to say he particularly enjoyed a lunch where Steve's wife was able to join them. "She works with Marines' children. The little kids tell her a lot about Okinawa, where I served for 3 years."

Bob heard about the Senior Visitors Program through his daughter-inlaw. Steven heard about the Senior Visitors Program through a friend who is also a volunteer with the program. "I learned about the Senior Visitors Program from a good friend. He shared some of his experience with the program and it inspired me to get involved. I had a desire to give something back to others."

I asked Bob if he would recommend the Senior Visitors Program to a friend? He replied, "Yes. It works for me. Gets me out of the house. Makes for a pleasant lunch. At my age, I've run out of friends to have lunch with, so I welcomed the opportunity." The Senior Visitors Program promotes independence and healthy living for older adults in their own home environment and foster a continued connection to their community. Volunteers offer socialization, companionship, and in some cases respite to caregivers. Volunteers and seniors are matched based on time availability, geographic proximity, and common interests and background. During this time when so many people (especially seniors) are socially isolated, we want to make sure the seniors in our community know they are not forgotten. The Senior Visitors Program is closely following the Center for Disease Control COVID guidelines, and we are doing all we can to safely alleviate the isolation so many seniors feel. For some like Bob and Steven, that may be a Friday lunch at their favorite restaurant. For most seniors in the Senior Visitors Program, that means a home visit which may include a game of cards, a puzzle, a walk around the neighborhood, or just sitting and reminiscing.

If you know a senior who could benefit from having a weekly, friendly visit or if you would like to volunteer to visit a senior, call the Senior Visitors Program at (540) 371-2 2704 or visit our website at mhafred.org to download volunteer or senior applications. The Senior Visitors Program is a free community service program of Mental Health America of Fredericksburg.

Laurie Black is the Senior Visitors Program Coordinator.