County of Kauai RSVP

By Donna Lynn Loo, RSVP Director, Agency on Elderly Affairs.

Nearly one out of three older adults live alone. But you don’t have to be alone to feel lonely. The County of Kauai, Agency on Elderly Affairs (AEA) provides resources for adults 60 years and older, including a new program called TLC, a telephone reassurance program addressing isolation and loneliness. AmeriCorps Seniors of the Kauai RSVP volunteer program will provide friendly phone calls with Tender Loving Care.

In a recent volunteer training, Dr. Dennis Pezzato, Phd Behavioral Specialist, shared insight with RSVP volunteers, to deal with common issues many seniors face—coming to terms with increased limitations and increased isolation in their lives. These challenges have a profound effect on their emotional and physical well-being.

It is not unusual for seniors to struggle with mood swings, depression, loneliness, and fears or uncertainty about their lives. Allowing them the opportunity to share their concerns and have them feel heard, can change their personal outlooks, and improve quality of life. Volunteers of the TLC program can serve as that listening ear.

Dr. Pezzato is a member of the AEA Advisory Board, an AEA Consultant and RSVP volunteer. He created a YouTube channel featuring his “Facets of Life” audio series. Topics include Relaxation Techniques; Life After a Cancer Diagnosis, Cardiac Event or Surgery; Adult Children; An Alzheimer’s Overview and more. A Caregiver’s Guide booklet, which Dr. Pezzato authored, is available at AEA.

Another valuable resource is free phone counseling sessions offered through WorkLife Hawaii, a division of Child & Family Service. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call WorkLife Hawaii at (808)543-8445. For more information on services for seniors, to register or volunteer for the TLC program, please call the Agency on Elderly Affairs at (808)241-4470.