OPINION: Older adults serving in their communities are part of the solution

If you’re 55 years of age or better, chances are you’ve led a good, meaningful life, working to improve yourself and others. You bring decades of wisdom, resilience and perspective — things that can’t be taught. But one thing is certain: we all can make a difference, no matter our circumstances, age or abilities. 

Many seniors in Idaho age 55 and above are facing social isolation and loneliness, along with mental health concerns. And there are many in this same age group who are looking for meaning and purpose, or a new adventure in life. Through Idaho State University’s AmeriCorps Seniors RSVP Program, we are bringing together both groups in a peer connection program, and you can be part of it!

RSVP stands for Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, and ISU’s program started in April 2025. We serve Bannock, Bingham, Power and Shoshone counties, seeking to combat loneliness and isolation among older adults and providing a vehicle for service for those seeking to address a pressing need right in their own communities.

Our program connects volunteers with adults 55 and older who are socially isolated. Volunteers provide regular visits, conversation and shared activities, helping participants feel seen, supported and connected. This program is about enjoying good conversation and building meaningful connections. It’s not about needing help — it's about sharing experiences, learning from one another and staying connected. You can participate in whatever way feels right for you, and many people find they both give and gain a lot from it!

My office, the Institute of Rural Health at Idaho State University, will help facilitate introductions among volunteers and participants, and can provide ideas and funding for activities as needed (for example, setting up a book club, supplies for an art activity, etc.). We are also looking for community partners to help us get the word out about the program, inform citizens about the opportunity to volunteer or participate, and nonprofit or health-related facilities (like nursing homes, long-term care/residential centers, senior centers, etc.) to serve as volunteer stations where volunteers can visit with participants.

Will you be part of the solution? If you’re interested, please call Annie Mendoza, project director, at 208-282-6275, or email [email protected]. You’ll be amazed at the good you can do in your own backyard. We look forward to serving with you!

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Annie Mendoza is an Americorps project director residing in Pocatello.