Social distancing during COVID-19 puts older adults at a greater risk of social isolation.
As a result, we have expanded our initiative via phone calls. We encourage healthcare providers and coordinators across Canada to refer older adults who may benefit from weekly calls from our volunteers.
Our well-being depends on feeling connected to others in meaningful ways. Unfortunately, many people experience social isolation and loneliness. Social isolation is defined by the lack of contact with people, while loneliness is a feeling that often, but not necessarily, arises from that disconnect. Social isolation is out of a person's control. Learn about risk factors and consequences associated with social isolation.
A FREE 8-week virtual training program through a partnership with Lean On Me teaching you about:
SSIPP is mentioned in a Toronto Star opinion piece. Read the heart-warming piece by Moses Shuldiner here.
SSIPP hosts a virtual talent night in collaboration with the Geriatric Interest Group (GIG) at the University of Saskatchewan College of Medicine.
Joule CMA shares the story of how our volunteers unite to provide companionship to seniors.
We are a group of medical students from across Canada that run SSIPP through our university chapters, anchored by a national executive team. Providing older adults with social comfort is dear to our hearts, as many of us have personally known or closely worked with those impacted by social isolation. We love listening to all the vivid memories shared with us and learn something new with every call.
We appreciate your interest, and encourage you to make a simple call to catch up with an older adult in your life - this goes a long way! If you are a health professional student looking to volunteer, or are a healthcare provider or coordinator looking to refer an older adult, please get in touch with a SSIPP chapter near you.
Say hello!