Bringing help and companionship to vulnerable, at-risk clients
It’s difficult on most days for Amy and Molly to venture out of the house. But in the cold, dead of winter, with snow and ice making every step treacherous, the pair need help.
Amy Anderson, 94, has macular degeneration and is losing her vision. She relies on volunteers from the Seniors Resource Society to walk her five-year-old German shepherd Molly.
“I used to do my own walking but as my eyes have failed, I feel guilty if the dog doesn’t get out enough. There’s days I can’t do it. I try, but with my vision and such, I’m worried about falling.”
The Seniors Resource Society matched her up with Katie Oliver, 25, who has taken a shine to both Amy and Molly. It’s now about much more than dog walking for the senior.
“Katie is ... a very caring person. She tries to help wherever she can. And the dog likes her and she’s good with the animals. She will sit and talk with me.
“There’s times I get lonely sitting here. So it helps to have someone to sit and talk to.”
For other seniors, such as Prabir Dhar, 75, they may need a ride or accompaniment to medical appointments or help around the home.
The deeds may differ but the society’s clients are similar in that they are some of the most vulnerable and at-risk in the community.
They are often low-income and many struggle to get by. Some have mobility or mental health issues. Their spouse may have passed away, their children live in other cities, or their friends and family members are estranged or gone.
They may be abused and need someone to advocate for them. They may face adversities such as being new to Canada and having language barriers. Most of all, they are alone and lonely, and many suffer in silence.
Funds from this year’s Calgary Herald Christmas Fund campaign will be used to recruit, train and match clients and volunteers, ensuring isolated seniors get the support they need and are not alone and forgotten.