A look at a community coming together to meet the needs of older adults: an evaluation of the neighbors Helping Neighbors program

J Gerontol Soc Work. 2008;50(3-4):81-98. doi: 10.1300/J083v50n3_07.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of the Neighbors Helping Neighbors program. The study included surveys of 49 community-residing older adults and 26 community volunteers. Results showed that older adults perceived their quality of life to have improved after receiving social and environmental services; volunteers felt that their contributions to the program had made a significant difference in their community. This exploratory, descriptive study is only a beginning effort, but it holds great promise for suggesting ways to address the needs of the burgeoning aging population in our society.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Evaluation Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged*
  • Aged, 80 and over
  • Community Networks*
  • Data Interpretation, Statistical
  • Female
  • Housing
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Program Evaluation
  • Quality of Life*
  • Residence Characteristics
  • Social Support*
  • Socialization
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Volunteers*