How to Adopt a Grandparent

One in eight Americans is over the age of 65, and by 2030 that number is expected to double. With aging friends passing away and the handicap of limited mobility, seniors often need interaction with others. Here are three ways you can reach out and make a difference by “adopting” a grandparent.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

1. Volunteer at an assisted living facility. Most senior centers, nursing homes and other assisted living facilities are eager for volunteers willing to spend time with residents, and staff members will know which ones are most interested in making new friends. While the first visit may feel awkward, over time you will be surprised at how much wisdom and laughter your new friend can share.
2. Become a pen pal. Write regularly to distant relatives or seniors you have met at church or other community organizations. For e-mail saavy seniors, visit Elderswithoutwalls.com, a site that connects aging adults across the country to younger people looking to befriend someone with more life experience. Scroll through the profiles, which include information about the seniors’ hometowns, former occupations, military service and hobbies and write to someone who catches your interest.
3. Go global. If time is an issue but you still want to support the cause, consider making a financial donation to international groups that fight for the rights of seniors in poverty. Adopta un Abuelito raises money for the elderly poor in El Salvador, Peru. Ten dollars provides a roundtrip taxi ride between to the hospital, and $65 pays for a new roof on a senior's home. For details, visit www.adopt-a-grandparent.org.

Tips & Warnings

• If you choose to send an email from Elderswithoutwalls.com, to put the recipient’s name in the Subject line because many of the registered seniors live in the same assisted living facility and share email addresses.
• Human service agencies are required to perform a criminal background check on all volunteers.