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1. What is the Friendly Visitor Program?

The Friendly Visitor Program was established in 1997 to help match up seniors in the community with someone who could visit them in their home on an on-going basis. The goal is to create socializing for the person while forming a true friendship.

2. Who does it serve?

The program serves isolated, home-bound seniors. Some seniors may live with families members but see no one else, others may live in an Assisted Living facility or elderly housing. Many seniors in town are over 80, have lost friends and relatives, or have health problems which don't allow them to get out or maintain old friendships.

3. How do I get a friendly visitor? What if I know someone who needs one?

Call the Council on Aging Department. A referral will then be made to the Friendly Visitor Program Coordinator. Contact the Council on Aging Department.

4. How can I become a Friendly Visitor?

Call the Council on Aging so that your name and number can be given to the Friendly Visitor Coordinator. A Friendly Visitor form will be sent to you to fill out. Contact the Council on Aging Department.

5. Does a Friendly Visitor go through any training or screening?

The Friendly Visitors go through a training outline similar to the one used in Worcester used by the Age Center. The references of each Friendly Visitor are checked and a criminal background check is run in compliance with the Massachusetts Criminal Offender Record Information

6. Are there any fees or compensation?

The Friendly Visitor is strictly a volunteer program. The Friendly Visitors are trained volunteers and there is no charge for the service

7. How do I get more information?

Simply call the Council on Aging at 508-841-8640. Our voice mail system is on 24 hours a day, so please call at any time.