The goal of the Senior Companion Program is to assist older people in their daily living activities such as grocery shopping, getting to medical appointments, or just visiting with one another. Senior Companions share their time with other seniors and help them maintain the highest level of dignity and independence, by visiting homebound seniors, providing support to family caregivers, and acting as a friend who listens and cares.
The program serves Polk, Clay, Mahnomen, Norman, Red Lake, Pennington, Lake of the Woods, Marshall, Kittson, and Roseau Counties.
Two Senior Companions, Merle Rafteseth and Lilian Hulst, have been volunteering in the program for 14 years each. They say the program is invaluable, and could always use more dedicated, caring volunteers.
How long have you been a Senior Companion?
Merle: I started in 1997
Lillian: 15 years, this July
What made you decide to start volunteering?
Merle: I was doing odd jobs, but needed something else
Lillian: I was referenced by a friend, Annette Raymond, who was a Senior Companion
What are some of the benefits you see with the clients you serve?
Merle: I enjoy the camaraderie of people and help them shopping; some have navicular troubles, they can't find items.
Lillian: Seniors have a way to get to the store and get groceries, helping them with things around the house, rides to the clinic.
Is there anything you'd say to someone considering becoming a Senior Companion?
Merle: Be talkative - some people are shy, and need a stimulant.
Lillian: If you want something to do, it gets you out and meeting people. I am very happy that I can do it.
Do you think there is a need for more people like you in this community?
Merle: Yes, there are people who have trouble commuting to and from stores and enjoy some security in numbers - only one can be lonesome, and need safety also. Some older people enjoy talking horse and buggie days, when gas was thirty cents a gallon. Arguing is not a good communication skill.
Lillian: I work with six people, used to be eight, and could use more clients.
