Friendly Visiting

Friendly volunteer visits for socially-isolated, lonely older adults in Halton.

Our caring Friendly Visiting volunteers meet with socially-isolated older adults for companionship and conversation.  They may also take the client out for walks if it safe to do so.  Visits usually happen once a week for 1-2 hours in the client’s home. 

This program is ideal for people:

• Ages 65+ who lack social support due to physical health conditions, transportation, accessibility or mobility reasons
• Live alone in their own home, apartment or retirement home where they are unable to leave their residence without assistance
• No current diagnosis of dementia – for people with dementia, please refer to the Memory Visiting Program

Matches are based on shared interests to ensure a positive and meaningful experience for both the client and volunteer. Volunteers commit to one year of service. However, we have an excellent track record – many of our clients and volunteers have been matched for years! Community programs to build social connections may be offered in lieu of a volunteer for clients who are able to access transportation.

Our professional staff team provide ongoing support to both clients and volunteers throughout their time together and can help clients access additional services as their needs change.

This program is offered free of charge through the generosity of our volunteers, funders and donors.

Program Criteria

• The client resides in the Region of Halton;
• The client has a valid Ontario Health Card;
• The staff and volunteers have the expertise to meet the person’s service needs;
• They agree to refrain from smoking while the Care Manager/Counsellor and volunteer(s) visits;
• They pose no risk to harm the Care Manager/Counsellor or volunteer(s);
• They do not have communicable diseases. Client with MRSA, VRE, and C Difficile must have three negative cultures prior to being visited with a volunteer.
• Older adults (65+) living in own home or in a retirement home who are socially isolated or with limited access to social supports due to physical health limitations, accessibility, mobility or transportation issues
• Older Adults who need help to bridge the gap between home and institution when placement becomes necessary;
• Exceptional cases will be evaluated by Care Manager on an individual basis
• No current diagnosis of dementia – for people with dementia, please refer to the Memory Visiting Program

Two Years of Tears: Jeanne Marie’s Story

Jeanne Marie Braund, aged 91, was desperately lonely until she discovered our Friendly Visiting program and her volunteer Annette.

Friendly Visiting Team