In an effort to reduce isolation and loneliness during the coronavirus pandemic, Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) has launched a new Friendly Phone Call system.

Friendly Phone Call matches older adults who are feeling isolated with an SCES team member or volunteer. Once connected, the pair can decide how often they’d like to connect, and what they want to talk about, explained SCES Assistant Director Annie Fowler.

“With everyone being asked to stay in their homes, we understand that this can be a lonely time and we want to do what we can to alleviate some of the loneliness,” said Fowler. “We want the calls to be an opportunity for local older adults to voice concerns and ask questions, but also chat about whatever is on their mind and get to know someone new.”

All Friendly Phone callers have passed CORI checks and the agency’s screening processes.

Friendly Call was launched in March, as part of a wider effort from the agency to continue providing supports for older adults, while also reducing the risk of Coronavirus exposure.

SCES is considered an essential service and is operating throughout the statewide closure order. Most employees are working remotely, and we ask that people who need assistance call or email, instead of visiting our office.

To learn more about Friendly Phone Calls or other local efforts to reduce loneliness, contact the SCES Aging Information Center by calling 617-628-2601 ext. 3151 or via email at info@eldercare.org.

To learn more about how SCES it taking steps to reduce coronavirus exposure risk, or for links to reliable information about the pandemic, visit the SCES coronavirus resource page at eldercare.org.

Somerville-Cambridge Elder Services (SCES) is a non-profit agency that supports the independence and well-being of older people in Somerville and Cambridge. For more information, visit eldercare.org, follow us on Facebook and or contact the SCES Aging Information Center at 617-628-2601 or info@eldercare.org for free advice and guidance.