Ombudsman turns to AgeUp

“It’s very meaningful, making a difference to probably the most fragile, vulnerable members of our community with very profound needs,” she said. “We are the adopted daughters and sons for a lot of these residents.” 

Even with around 30 volunteers and six full-time staff members, Ombudsman Services was not equipped to help address the totality of psychosocial needs and lack of human connection that many seniors in care facilities face, she said. 

The expansion into AgeUp is geared toward connecting San Mateo County residents with those seniors through a variety of programs. The Phone Buddies program pairs adults with weekly callers, for example, and the Kindness Crew initiative will bring skills like music and gardening to residents. 

Brummer is hopeful that local groups already geared toward volunteer initiatives, like the Girl Scouts and Lions Club, will participate with AgeUp. 

“There’s lots of facilities that just don’t have resources for quality programs for residents, and residents laying in bed all day long,” she said. 

Because seniors are most likely to affiliate with groups like faith organizations, AgeUp is also pioneering a program that will train clergy and faith leadership to recognize the signs of elder abuse, Brummer said. 

At a time when 70% of older adults will at one point spend time in a long-term care facility, it’s important for the community to come together to improve quality-of-life conditions for residents, she said. 

“I’m really hoping this program will help combat isolation and focus on psychosocial needs, not only of residents, but of everybody,” she said. “The Board of Supervisors, a few years ago, determined there’s a public health crisis around social isolation. This is a great way to have intergenerational programming.” 

Those interested in volunteering should contact volunteer@age-up.org or call (650) 780-5707.