About 28% of the population 65 years and older live alone. Eight out of ten have a chronic condition or illness, and one in four experience some form of mental disorder. Often overlooked, older adults who experience loneliness and social isolation have a serious health risk, equivalent to smoking 15 cigarettes a day. In our community, older adults have a chance to fight against the negative impact that aging alone may have in their lives: the Senior Peer Counseling Program at Peninsula Family Service.
This is the only peer-supported program of its kind in San Mateo County and, with your valuable support, we help older adults lead healthier, more stable lives. Participants are matched with a volunteer Peer Counselor who often shares a similar background, and language. Participants can choose to join a group session or request one-on-one counseling. Group sessions are offered in a variety of languages.
To learn more about the program, and to get involved as a Senior Peer Counselor, you can contact Geri Lustenberg via e-mail or via phone at (650) 403.4300 Ext. 4389.
See what our participants are saying about the program:
