Older adults face many unique changes in life. These can include retirement, children leaving the home, welcoming grandchildren, relocation due to a change in financial or family situations, the stress (and excitement!) of leisure planning, health challenges and the loss of family and friends. While some of these changes are welcome, others can leave older adults feeling lonely and isolated.
Mental Health Partners’ Senior Peer Counseling Program (SPC) is available to step in and provide support, guidance and comfort during this season of life for older adults. Following a “seniors helping seniors” model, this peer-to -peer volunteer program offers individual and group support to adults age 60 years and older throughout Boulder County. In addition to individual support, the program offers several support groups, including Women’s Support Group, Men’s Support Group and Caregiver’s Support Group.
Senior Peer Counselors are volunteers who have extensive training and supervision. They also share similar life experiences with those in the program and can convey practical wisdom. Their special ability to listen and care helps offer support and understanding from one older adult to another.
If you, or a loved one or friend, could benefit from being part of the SPC program, please call 303-413-6377 or email mcaspari@mhpcolorado.org to request an individual Senior Peer Counselor or learn more about an upcoming support group. A SPC will meet you at your home, your local Senior Center, or any other convenient location in Boulder County. There is no fee for this program.
~ Peggy Caspari, Coordinator, Mental Health Partners’ Senior Peer Counseling Program. A Licensed Professional Counselor and Registered Nurse, she enjoys working with people of all ages, helping them reach their goals in life.