Friendly Visitors and Telephone Reassurance

Friendly Visitors are people who visit older adults and people with disabilities in their home. They provide social connection, companionship and may help with some tasks around the house usually for free. There are several programs around the state, including local volunteer-based programs and Senior Companions (a program of AmeriCorps). These programs may provide background screenings and matching services.

Free telephone check-in services are also available in some communities. These services establish a prearranged time for either an automated or volunteer-based community call to or by people who live alone or are alone for several hours at a time. If participants do not answer the phone, or make the call, a request for help is then made.

Also, digital home assistance through such products as smart speakers increasingly offer help with safety, mobility and memory. Go to the assistive technology section of MyPlaceCT.org to learn more.

Each program may establish its own eligibility criteria. Generally, participants must be a resident of the community and meet the age and/or disability requirements.

Services include a home visit or a phone call once or twice a week. There is usually no cost to the participant.