By Sara Jackson, MiCAFE Network Specialist
Many of us hope that when we are older, we are surrounded by those who love us and care for us. We also hope to live in a safe, warm, and comfortable place to call home. We look forward to having loved ones come to visit and to keep us company. Even though this goal doesn’t seem difficult to achieve, it becomes very difficult for older adults who are alone. What can we do to help those individuals feel loved and wanted? You can adopt them!
At Central Michigan University (CMU), the Mary Ellen Brandell Volunteer Center has a program called Adopt-A-Grandparent. This program is a co-mentoring program between an older adult and a student mentor. The program seeks to foster positive, healthy, and meaningful relationships between the students and the residents that they associate with. CMU partners with Maplewood Acres Assisted Living, Andahwod Senior Care, Rosebush Manor, and Green Acres Living. The residents at these facilities are matched with students who share the same interests, hobbies, and/or passions.
The program does have some requirements:
- Spend at least one hour a week together visiting, playing games, and learning from each other
- Also attend monthly special events together and take part in activities like bingo, arts/crafts, and other activities
CMU isn’t the only place that allows people to adopt a grandparent, there are many organizations and agencies across the United States that do the same thing. If you are interested in finding an organization near you, please visit How To Adopt A Grandparent to learn more.