Senior Companion Program
Needed Now More Than Ever
Americans are living longer
than ever before. As our population ages,
more older Americans will need long term
care. Most seniors prefer home-based
care rather than nursing home care. That's
why Senior Companions are so valuable.
They provide the assistance that frail
seniors need in order to live independently
in their homes. There is a long list
of people in San Juan County waiting
for a Senior Companion.
Well Trained and Responsive
Senior Companions do not
begin serving until after they have attended
a 40-hour orientation. Each month they
receive four hours of training in specific
topics such as Alzheimer's disease, strokes,
diabetes, and mental health.
Who Serves as Senior Companions? 
Senior Companions are
60 years old, meet income eligibility
requirements, and serve a minimum of
15 to a maximum of 40 hours per week.
Eligible Senior Companions earn a small
tax-free stipend to cover the cost of
serving. They also receive reimbursement
for meals while on duty, transportation,
and annual physical exam, and supplemental
accident and liability coverage while
they are serving.
A Good Idea, A Great Investment
Senior Companions often
make the difference between living at
home or moving to an institutional setting.
This translates into major health care
savings for seniors, their families,
and taxpayers.
The estimated value of
the Senior Companion service is $150
million annually, a five-fold return
on federal dollars invested. Every federal
dollar invested in the Senior Companion
Program generates 61 cents from other
sources.
To become a Senior Companion,
call the San Juan College Volunteer Center
at (505) 566-3782 or visit the Senior
Corps national web site.
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