After retiring and living independently for several years, Dick suffered a stroke and began having symptoms of memory loss. Given his health changes, it was necessary that Dick move in with his daughter. In addition to his loss of independence, friends and community, Dick’s daughter works all day. Dick’s daughter recognized that her dad was really lonely and disconnected. She heard about the Senior Visitors program and called to see how he could get enrolled. She explained that her dad’s isolation and loneliness often led to him sleeping all day. The Program Director met with Dick. Dick expressed that he felt little pleasure in activities now. He worried about his health, loss of independence, and finances.
On his first visit with Harry, his new volunteer visitor, they simply sat and talked. Now they’ve been together for 3 years. They go for lunch each Friday. Harry takes Dick to the barber and they run errands. Sometimes they just stay home and play cards. Dick is smiling again and feels lucky that Harry came into his life. Dicks says, “I have a friend and his name is Harry. Fridays are my favorite days!”