In her own words: A Senior Companion Program volunteer explains why she does it
![Senior Companion Program volunteer Ellen Morgan (right) provides companionship and reading support to client Trevalee Johansson.](/sites/default/files/Trevalee%20%26%20Ellen%201361.jpg)
We are proud to be part of Oregon's effort to invest in senior behavioral health. By investing in our older adults, we ensure that they will thrive in our community.
Today 15.4% of Oregonians are 65 years or older. By 2030, that number will increase to 20%, with the over 75 age group growing even faster.
Nationally, this trend impacts behavioral health in the following ways:
The Senior Loneliness Line is a 24/7 crisis line that offers help to older adults and their loved ones throughout Oregon.
This free, confidential service serves adults 55 and older who may be isolated or lonely. Volunteers and staff are specially trained in working with older adults, and can provide ongoing support, connect you with resources, or just listen.
Sometimes knowing there is someone who cares and wants to listen can be of great help. Call 503-200-1633 or visit their website.
Community Connections Through Physical Distancing
While we are all feeling the impact of the pandemic, older adults are experiencing isolation and loneliness now more than ever as a result of COVID-19. You can help! Clackamas County has partnered with the Senior Loneliness Line and adult community centers on the Clackamas County Writes project. We’re inviting the community, especially young people, to write letters and create artwork as a way of creating connection with older adults in this time of physical distancing. The Senior Loneliness Line or adult community centers will ensure your letter of artwork are distributed to a lonely or isolated older adult in our community.
Milwaukie
"Clackamas County Writes"
Milwaukie Center
c/o Linda Whitmore
5440 SE Kellogg Creek Dr
Milwaukie, OR 97222
lindawhi@ncprd.com
Molalla
"Clackamas County Writes"
Molalla Adult Center
c/o Cecily Rose
PO Box 797
Molalla, OR 97038
cecily@foothillsonline.com
Portland
"Clackamas County Writes"
Senior Loneliness Line
c/o Bill Fitzpatrick
5100 SW Macadam Ave Ste 400
Portland, OR 97239
billf@linesforlife.org
Lake Oswego
"Clackamas County Writes"
Lake Oswego Adult Community Center
PO Box 369
Lake Oswego, OR 97034
Contact the Clackamas County OABHI Team at oabhi@clackamas.us to list your organization as a participating partner. You’ll need to be prepared to screen the letters, removing them from the envelopes to keep the writers-personal information safe, and screening for personal or inappropriate information.