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TOPIC 14: Neighbor Helping Neighbor When most people think of retirement, they think of doing the things they want to do, when they want to do them. They finally earned their independance after years of "paying their dues." Unfortunately, a lot of seniors never realize that dream. In this segment of "Living Younger," we'll tell you about a unique program that's keeping people independant, living in their homes instead of nursing homes. Georgie Hunt reads to her neighbor Emma. Georgie loves to read, and Emma could use the companionship. They are both a part of a unique program called "The Old Fort Lowel Live at Home Program." Program coordinator Ann Branham says, "I think it grew out of a sense that there were many people in the neighborhood who loved our closeness and activity, but who were getting older, maybe didn't have family. Some who had to move into assisted living.. and it grew out of a sense that neighbors should be helping neighbors." Reading is just one of the things volunteers do to help their neighbors in the Fort Lowell neighborhood. The idea is to keep people in their homes as long as possible. Georgie Hunt says,"Staying in your own home is extremely important, and to have people come in and visit with you and liven up your day.. doing little things for them. Some do gardening, others dog sit.. this is what I like to do." The service is free to people who live within the boundries of the Fort Lowell neighborhood. Right now there are about 15 trained volunteers, and 15 people using the service. More volunteers are waiting to be trained so that more neighbors can be helped. Whether it be reading, taking a neighbor to a doctor's visit, light housekeeping or grocery shopping. Emma says the service is invaluable. "It means a lot to me. I just think its going the second mile for a person." She continues saying, "You feel safe, you feel good. It's very good."
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