Jewish Eldercare of RI stands on values of compassion and community, providing vital support and connection to seniors within the Jewish community. As the aging population grows, so does the need for programs that offer not just practical assistance but, as important, the warmth of human connection and the preservation of cultural heritage. We believe every older adult deserves to feel valued, supported, and connected to their community. Jewish Eldercare does just that in seeking to combat social isolation and nurture meaningful relationships that enrich the lives of seniors.
The social support that Jewish Eldercare provides can alleviate boredom, sadness, loneliness, and feelings of isolation. These friendly visits are designed to provide meaningful engagement in activities that are important to the senior. Whether it’s playing a game, listening to music, bird watching, or just chit-chatting, this visit and level of companionship can play a crucial role in seniors’ social lives.
Here are some cognitive and emotional benefits of senior companionship:
- Emotional Support: Volunteers are trained in techniques to help draw out conversation with their clients and how to be active listeners, learning how to be supportive while maintaining boundaries as a volunteer companion rather than a counselor.
- Peace of Mind for Families: For family members who live out of state and cannot make frequent visits, knowing that a volunteer from the Jewish community is visiting their loved one makes the distance a little easier for the seniors and their families.
- Sense of belonging: As people age, their traditions and social customs become vital for them to hold on to, but maintaining those customs can often be difficult and may be lost as seniors move out of their community or become isolated in their home. The mission of Jewish Eldercare is to provide a social and cultural connection for our Jewish seniors. Staff and volunteers may provide cultural programs, spiritual support, holiday celebrations, and gift deliveries for seniors who may otherwise feel isolated from their Jewish community.
Under the leadership of Jewish Eldercare’s new coordinator, our ‘Head Mench’, Gary Serby, is poised for expansion and innovation, seeking to reach even more seniors and deepen its impact in the community. By extending a helping hand to those in nursing homes or isolated in their own homes, the program is committed to creating a brighter, more connected future for Jewish seniors in Rhode Island.
If you or an aging loved-one has been feeling socially isolated, please contact Gary today at 401.331.1244 or Gary@jcsri.org to request friendly visits from Jewish Eldercare of RI volunteers.
Become a Volunteer
For over 30 years Jewish Eldercare of RI has celebrated the bonds of friendship, the preservation of Jewish culture, and the resilience of the human spirit. It is the dedicated team of staff and volunteers who go above and beyond and make a difference in the lives of seniors in our community. Through visits and calls these compassionate individuals provide much-needed companionship, encouragement, and support, while also fostering a sense of belonging and connection to Jewish culture.
You can join us and become a volunteer, witnessing firsthand the profound impact of compassionate care and community connection. For more information contact JCS’ volunteer coordinator, Laura Cole at 401.331.1244 or Laura@jcsri.org.