COLDWATER, MI (WTVB) – A new collaborative project called Phone Pals has been developed by the Branch County Commission on Aging, the Area Agency on Aging 3C and Pines Behavioral Health to ensure senior citizens who live in Branch County have a listening ear when it comes to being stuck at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. Phone Pals is a way for older adults to connect with a friendly person who will listen sincerely and offer support on a regular basis.
The person on the other end of the line is a Pines Behavioral Health employee.
Branch County Commission on Aging Executive Director Amy Duff says “we know these many weeks at home are really taking a toll on the mental health of our seniors in Branch County. We wanted to develop this initiative to let them know they aren’t alone and we’re here to talk to them, since we can’t be with them in person.”
Pines Behavioral Health C.E.O. Sue Germann says it’s fortunate the three agencies are collaborating together in order to reach the greatest amount of older adults in need of wanting to talk to someone. “Older adults who are encouraged to remain safe at home are missing what many of us take for granted, especially people watching and catching up with friends or acquaintances that they may run into at different businesses. That social connection to others is so important”, said Germann.
Phone Pals is a free service and any Branch County senior can call it at (517) 227-4933.
