About The Senior Companion Program
Since 1988, the Senior Companion Program has made a difference by providing assistance and friendship to adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks. The Senior Companions assist these adults to retain their dignity and remain independent in their homes rather than having to move to more costly institutional care.
Volunteer your time and earn a stipend!
Serve as a friend and companion to older neighbors making sure they can live in their own homes for as long as possible. The Senior Companion program focuses on providing assistance and friendship to older adults who have difficulty with daily living tasks, such as shopping or preparing light meals. Through this program, AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers keep individuals independent longer and provide respite to family caregivers. Volunteers themselves report better health and longevity having served their community.
Eligibility
- Knox County, TN resident
- Age 55+
- Enjoys working with older adults
- Is in good physical and mental health
- Capable of serving older adults with special needs
- Able to volunteer 15-40 hours a week
- Can pass a background check
Senior Companion Benefits
- Tax-free hourly stipend for eligible individuals
- Transportation mileage reimbursement or public
transportation provided - Meal allowance
- Paid orientation and ongoing training
- Liability insurance while on assignment
- Recognition events
- Socialization
Senior Companions Provide
- Companionship
- In-home support activities
- Positive social interaction and encouragement
- Information and referral support to community resources
- Promote development of healthy physical and emotional habits
- Respite for family caregivers
Senior Companions Assist
- Isolated older adults
- Older adults with unmet physical, emotional, or social needs
- Individuals suffering from memory loss
- Older adults battling chronic conditions
- Individuals recovering from surgery, cancer treatment, dialysis, and other health conditions
- Family caregivers suffering exhaustion and burnout
How To Sign Up
If you’re interested in volunteering or if you need a Senior Companion, please contact Florence Dills, Senior Companion Program Coordinator, by florence.dills@knoxseniors.org or (865) 524-2786
Why Choose the Senior Companion Program
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The Senior Companion Program has been administered by the Knoxville-Knox County CAC Office on Aging since 1988. Funding comes from the Corporation for National and Community Service (AmeriCorps), as well as from Knoxville and Knox County. Community donations make it possible to
