​Addressing Loneliness and Isolation for Kane County Seniors

July 20, 2022, BATAVIA. Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly (LBFE), an organization working to end loneliness for seniors for more than 60 years, is launching in Kane and DuPage counties and seeking volunteers. With the help of volunteers, LBFE can ensure that seniors who are aging alone can replace feelings of isolation and loneliness with meaningful friendship, engaging programs and essential services.

Loneliness poses the same risk to senior health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. Research has linked loneliness to depression, dementia, and high blood pressure.

“Seniors in Kane County are at real risk of loneliness and isolation. Nearly a third of Kane County seniors live alone and in their own homes according to the Census. And it’s not just seniors who live alone who are at risk. I saw a recent statistic that 60% of seniors who live in residential facilities do not receive any visitors at all,” says Maria Stamos, LBFE’s Expansion Program Planner. “As a Kane County resident, I’m so excited to bring LBFE’s work to Kane County. LBFE’s mission to end loneliness is unique and benefits not only the elders we serve but the volunteers who make this happen.”

“Since 1959, volunteers have been the foundation of LBFE’s work. And we depended on volunteers to help our elders feel connected during the pandemic with thousands of phone visits and handwritten cards,” says Josh Chartier, Director of Volunteer Services & Community Engagement. “Do you want to make a difference in Kane County? You can help lonely and isolated elders, especially those that may have fallen between the cracks—like seniors who no longer feel comfortable driving, meaning they are spending much more time at home and alone.”

LBFE will provide volunteers with an orientation and opportunities to make a difference through direct interaction with seniors. Right now, LBFE is looking for volunteers to become phone call visitors and in-home visitors, or to serve on our volunteer leadership team and help put together opportunities for social gatherings.

While many activities will take place at seniors’ homes or out in the community, LBFE also has a wonderful resource at Audrey’s House, on Seavey Road, a year-round Program Center and Vacation Home. Stamos adds, “With the help of volunteers, Audrey’s House will be transformed into a place for celebration, luncheons, birthday parties, and social

gatherings. It’s homey and elder-friendly, with indoor and outdoor space perfect for large and small groups alike.”

Find out more about opportunities to get involved by contacting Maria Stamos at 312-300-6263 or by email at MStamos@LBFEillinois.org.

This new program is part of LBFE, which has operated in Chicago since 1959 and serves about 1,200 seniors in the city every year. Events, visits, and other programs help seniors who are aging without support from family or friends build new and lasting relationships. All services and programs are free to our seniors, regardless of income.