Welcome  to YANA
Seniors Society

shared joy is double joy...
shared sorrow is half sorrow

As the number of aging Canadians grows, so does the care needed to assist the elderly. Often they are forgotten, not only by their families, who feel they are unable to help, but also by society in general. No one likes to watch frailty and progressive illness happen to family members or friends. While elderly people receive the necessary care in nursing homes, assisted living facilities and independent living centers they can feel forgotten, and their loneliness can bring on physical and mental disabilities.

In many cases elderly people who live in long-term care facilities have either outlived their friends and family or live too far away for them to visit. Reports from the U.S. Institute of Aging indicate that social engagement and close relationships are powerfully associated with general health and longevity. Often seniors without a social network experience loneliness and depression, and later dementia. Imagine the difference a volunteer (friend) can make with a weekly visit. The elder would feel valued and re-connected to the world.

YANA’s volunteers are matched on a one-to-one basis with lonely and isolated elderly people living in long-term care facilities. They visit weekly, sharing stories, and often become the resident’s closest friend for the rest of his or her life. YANA’s intent is to bring friendship, support, and a sense of purpose to these wonderful yet very lonely people. Not surprisingly, volunteers feel a special connection as well adding another “member” to their families. Many YANA visitors bring their pets with them to visit those seniors who have a connection with animals. Pets can often reach lonely people in a way that another person cannot. The combination of warm and caring volunteers along with special pets is, for many seniors, “as good as it gets”.

Please explore our site to learn more about YANA and how you can help.