Aging: Senior Companion Program

The Senior Companion Program is a way for older adults to befriend others in their community. Today in Wisconsin, more than 160 people serve as senior companions. We’re always looking for more volunteers. Learn more to see if this program sounds like a good fit for you.

What senior companions do

Senior companions are people aged 60 or older. They provide help and company to other older adults who either:

• Are at risk of moving to a long-term care facility.
• Live alone.
• Must stay at home.

Senior companions often serve two to four clients. They volunteer 20 hours of service each week. They help clients:

• Do simple chores, such as:
  • Pay bills.
  • Shop for groceries.
  • Drive or find transportation to medical appointments.
• Feel less lonely by being a friend.
• Relieve live-in caretakers for a short time with respite care.
• Take care of other services that older adults need to live on their own.

Many senior companions serve the same clients for many years. They become friends. The work adds meaning both to their life and the client’s life.

How to sign up

Contact the office for Wisconsin's senior companion program to learn more and sign up.

Great Lakes Inter-Tribal Council Senior Companion Program
Jessica Polencheck
715-588-1063
jpolencheck@glitc.org

Areas: All Wisconsin Tribal people. Includes Milwaukee urban Indian population and a Tribal nation in Michigan—Lac Vieux Desert.