Senior citizens often feel very lonely and isolated, so just one phone call can make a world of difference to them. That’s what makes what this California non-profit is doing so amazing!

Eskaton is a non-profit that has been helping seniors for over fifty years by reaching out to them via its Telephone Reassurance program. Volunteers have made over 1.6 million phone calls to senior citizens, calling them to give them the opportunity to socialize and make daily conversation.

Experts say that elderly people who are lonely are more likely to get dementia than those who have more social connections. Linda Whiteside, the Telephone Reassurance program manager, said that loneliness can cause other physical problems as well.

“Social connections formed between volunteers and the Telephone Reassurance participants go a long way to reduce health risks and bring peace of mind to seniors and their family members,” she said.

Ben is one senior who has benefited from this program.

“I am so grateful that someone is calling me every day and checking on me. It lifts my spirits to know someone cares,” he said, with another senior describing the program as a “lifesaver.”

The non-profit is staffed by volunteers who pass a full background check, and it is currently servicing seniors in the Sacramento area.

If you know a senior who could be helped by this program, call 916-334-1072 or 866-ESKATON. You can also call them if you are interested in volunteering, as they are interested in volunteers from any age group!

Find out more about this in the video below!