Senior Companions also assist individuals by providing respite for caregivers, temporarily relieving them of their responsibilities and offering them the opportunity to address their own personal needs and issues. In nursing homes, they visit and support residents, helping them to remain as self-sufficient as possible. Each Companion usually serves two to four clients per week (Monday - Friday) for a total of 20 hours.

Who Are Senior Companions?

Sunbeam's Senior Companion Program is made up of over 100 active senior citizen volunteers, over 60 and within the approved income level, who assist elderly adults remain independent and in their own homes. Companions are men and women who help their clients by reading letters, newspapers, business or other mail, preparing meals, aiding in finding community resources, running errands, or assisting with personal grooming. Most importantly, companions are "a dependable friend" who provide relief from isolation and loneliness that only one contemporary can provide another.

How Do I Become A Senior Companion?

If you are interested in becoming a Senior Companion, you must be income eligible and, for your time, you will receive a modest, tax- free stipend to offset the cost of volunteering. Other benefits include reimbursement for transportation, an annual physical, and supplemental accident and liability insurance while on duty.

All Sunbeam Senior Companions receive 40 hours of training, which includes:

• Client Education - "Who do we serve?"
• Sensitivity and Assertiveness Training
• Education for Alzheimer's, Depression and other Senior Health issues.
• Home Health/Hospice Education
• Policies, Procedures and Time Card Training

Also, Companions receive 4 hours of training each month. Fourteen volunteer stations serve as referral sources for clients. When Sunbeam finds a suitable companion match a meeting is set up. Clients are not charged for companion services and companions are not allowed to accept money or gifts. All companions must pass a health screening and background check and must commit to at least 20 hours/week.

If you are interested in becoming a Senior Companion, please call (405) 528-7721.

How Do I Receive A Senior Companion?

Applications to receive a Senior Companion are readily available. If you are a senior citizen who is currently receiving services through Eldercare, Mary Hahoney Health Center, Third Age Life Center or Veterans Affairs Medical Center, applications can be made through those organizations. If you are not affiliated with any of the aforementioned organizations, please call Senior Connection at (405) 943-4344 to inquire about receiving services from Sunbeam's Senior Companion Program.

For more information about Sunbeam's Senior Companion Program, please call 405.528.7721.