Pandemic Pen Pals Spread Joy and Kindness to Isolated Older Adults
Home Instead delivers more than 100 letters to seniors in San Antonio on Pen Pals Day
The pandemic has given the population a deeper understanding of what life is like for older adults who may experience loneliness on a regular basis. For many seniors, limited social interaction they already experienced and loneliness they feel was only amplified by social distancing measures.
While continuing to follow precautions is necessary to keep many vulnerable populations safe, the need for connection has never been greater. In fact, almost half of U.S. seniors (49%) feel they have connected less to their loved ones since the start of the pandemic.
“Loneliness is one of the most devastating issues facing our aging population, but it’s also something we’re capable of addressing,” said Chris Lerch, owner of San Antonio Home Instead office. “After a year of isolating at home, we need a little creativity and a lot of intention to ensure regular contact with neighbors and loved ones, even as some social distancing measures are relaxed. A simple act of kindness, such as writing a letter, can really brighten the day of an older adult.”
To help reduce these feelings of loneliness and isolation among older adults, Home Instead in San Antonio is setting up more than 100 local seniors with a pen pal on National Pen Pals Day (June 1). The organization will deliver letters to Home Instead clients and is also partnering with Morningside at the Meadows to distribute notes of encouragement. The initiative is a community eventand is made possible by the generous support from San Antonio businesses, nonprofit organizations, retailers, numerous volunteers and members of the community.
“These letters may seem like a simple act of kindness, but they really can brighten the day of an older adult,” said Lerch. “Every time I read a letter from a volunteer or see a senior’s face light up when they hear from their pen pal, I’m reminded of the true power of community.”
Becoming a pen pal is simple. Members of the public can submit letters, photos or video messages at readytocare.com/penpals to create a meaningful connection with a senior. They can also nominate a senior—or even request a letter themselves—by contacting info@readytocare.com. Home Instead will handle everything else, from vetting to delivery.
For more information about pen pals or to submit your own letter, visit readytocare.com/penpals or call (210) 761-6614. Or, for other creative ideas to connect with seniors in your community, visit readytocare.com.
