ITN helps seniors stay connected via calls and conversation

ITN Southern Delaware, a local nonprofit transportation network for seniors, saw a need and filled it.

The existing COVID-19 State of Emergency is bringing more harm to elders than illness and death. The consequences of ongoing social distancing and elimination of routine outings and activities, as well as not having close friends or relatives nearby, can lead to increased feelings of social isolation and lack of connection to the outside world. This can be potentially devastating for seniors’ physical and mental health.

Because of a strong commitment to individualized service and genuine customer care, and the fact that ITN is all about developing lasting relationships, a new program for members and volunteers is now in place.

The In Touch Network: Friendly Connections program links ITN members with volunteers who will call them and provide warm, sincere conversation on a regular basis. Those who sign up for this telephone support program can take part in calls with volunteers or other ITN members who may be homebound, living alone, or just want to reach out to others, and it’s free.

Regular conversations can ward off feelings of isolation, loneliness, anxiety and depression. Calls will allow participants to share thoughts, opinions and life experiences, and even develop lasting friendships.

ITN has also adapted regular ride services at least through the end of April. ITN is currently providing its members medically necessary and urgent rides to and from doctors’ offices and establishments with proper health and safety precautions in place. ITN also provides pickup and delivery of prepaid prescriptions, groceries, critical care items and carry-out orders from local pharmacies, grocery stores and no-contact food establishments.

For more information or to volunteer for ITN: Friendly Connections, call 302-448-8486.