Befriend an Elder on your Block!

Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly
*612-746-0725 *
littlebrothersmn.org

Harnesses the power of neighbors like you to end elder isolation in our neighborhood block-by block. While the first step is simple – making friends – it “takes a village” to ensure its success. Here’s how YOU can begin the process of bringing ongoing companionship and greater well-being to our lonely and isolated neighbors.

1. IDENTIFY WHICH OLDER NEIGHBORS MAY BE ISOLATED AND LONELY, SUCH AS:

•  The older person who regularly sits alone in the park or coffee shop.
•  A neighbor whose blinds are always closed and who rarely is seen in their yard, even during good weather.
•  A neighbor whose sidewalks are not shoveled or whose grass is not mowed.
•  An elder who your other neighbors don’t know and rarely see who may have newspapers piling up or a mailbox left un-emptied.
•  A neighbor living alone who doesn’t want your conversation with them to end.
•  The older person with a caregiver who still needs additional social engagement.
•  An older neighbor who may have limited accessibility due to poor eyesight, hearing loss or other disability.
•  A neighbor who has recently lost a spouse or partner.

2. BREAK THE ICE

•  Invite the neighbor out for coffee.
•  Bring over a plate of freshly baked cookies.
•  Offer to help with some yardwork.
•  Start an unhurried conversation with an older neighbor if you pass by them in their yard or on the street.
•  Offer to give a neighbor a lift to a doctor’s appointment, hairdresser or faith service.

3. NEXT, LET LITTLE BROTHERS – FRIENDS OF THE ELDERLY SUPPORT YOU AND YOUR NEIGHBORS!

Neighbors and elder friends will receive tools, skills and support through Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly that will ensure greater success in keeping the elder socially engaged and cared about, including:

• Basic training in topics such as: communicating with an elder, aging issue, setting boundaries and expectations; and more.
•  Background checks and emergency information.
•  Elder participation in ongoing social events, including bingo, crafts groups, LGBT lunches, holiday visits, and more.
•  The support of an organization that, through caring volunteers and staff members, has brought friendship to isolated elders in the Twin Cities since 1972.