INDEPENDENT LIVING PROGRAM

 Description of the Program

Many older individuals, especially elderly and homebound seniors, need help in order to continue living independently.  The RSVP Independent Living Program is dedicated to helping these individuals remove some of the obstacles and barriers to living independently in their own home and avoid institutionalization. 

The Independent Living Program includes assistance with local and long distance transportation for medical and dental appointments, minor renovations and repair projects to ensure safe entry in and out of the home, and educational programming to provide instruction on how to maintain a residence for efficiency, safety, and security.  It also includes the practicing of personal security measures for self and vehicle when out in the community.

 Purpose/Need for the Program

As individuals age their physical ability to perform necessary home maintenance tasks and even minor repairs can diminish.  Some of these individuals also lack sufficient economic resources to employ outside help for these tasks and do not have a support network of family and friends physically capable of performing the needed work.  When repair needs go unattended, they get worse to the point of making the home a safety hazard, eventually uninhabitable.  In addition, older adults often have a need for more knowledge and understanding on topics such as safety, security, financial management, and computer operations. Programs and instruction in these areas can be very helpful.

 How to become a Volunteer with this Program

Volunteers are much needed for this program—for driving individuals to medical and dental appointments and for performing minor repairs and such tasks as yard clean-ups.  Also, volunteers would be appreciated to help in the coordination of educational programs on topics related to independent living.  If you would be interested in volunteering in this important program, please contact RSVP Director Rocky Hudson or Traci at 762-9412.