Last Week Tammy Schmidt talked about the Friendly Visitor Program under The Mental Health Association of Montgomery County. The Friendly Visitor Program is staffed by volunteers that visit clients that are mostly over 70 (and 60% over 80) that live in their own homes, group homes, or assisted living facilities. Common among the aged is depression, grief, loneliness, and limited resources.

Volunteers must be 21 or over; enjoy the company of seniors; are good listener; attend volunteer orientation and on going training: and visit an hour a week and commit to a year of service. The Program’s goals are to relieve loneliness, help clients remain in the community, and monitor their health.