Adopt A Grandparent

Dear Linda:
 
       I’m a freshman in college who was looking for a volunteer opportunity. My adviser suggested adopting-a-grandparent. I met an elderly woman with no family in my own neighborhood, and though I know I have helped my adopted grandmother, I’ve learned more from her than I can say. This special experience has turned out to be such a gift in my life, and I want others to consider doing the same.

A Grateful Teen
Dear Grateful Teen:

       It’s so heartening to hear a young person recognize the value of relationships with older people. Seniors are able to impart valuable wisdom gained from a lifetime of joy and heartache, can teach lessons learned in their work and family environments, and can share their friendship and love—capabilities that don’t diminish with age.

       Harvard University research reveals that seniors who participate in social activities, spend time with friends and family, play cards and games, and exercise will live an average of 2.5 years longer than those who are more isolated. Being cared about by even one other person spares that senior from feeling alone and vulnerable.

       Adopting-a-grandparent unites the generations. It offers young people an opportunity to receive precious gifts from seniors, and it offers seniors someone to visit and listen, help and serve, and love and comfort them—all critical for physical and emotional well-being.

       A very successful Adopt-A-Grandparent (AAGP) program was founded by Linda Lanstraat in Atlanta, Georgia in 1978. In this organization, there are three types of volunteers who give at least two hours a week—a Friend who visits the senior at home, an On-call driver who takes seniors to functions and appointments, and an AAGP Board Member who raises awareness and funds.

     Consider beginning an organization in your area or like Grateful Teen, look around neighborhood, in the church pews or loading sacs at your grocery store. Today, more and more often, the elderly are left by family members to fend for themselves, and they are struggling. When you see an old person working a job that seems too hard for them, take a moment to chat. See what you can do to help.