211 Cares: Social Isolation Among Seniors

By Marc Cronin
Executive Director, Wiregrass 211
July 17, 2026

Since the COVID-19 pandemic, social isolation among adults age 65 and older has increased significantly. During the pandemic, many older adults limited social activities to protect their health and reduce the risk of illness. While these precautions were necessary, many seniors never fully returned to their previous level of social engagement.

As a result, thousands of older adults now experience prolonged isolation in addition to those who were already homebound due to chronic illness, disability, or limited mobility. Research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and other leading healthcare organizations shows that prolonged social isolation is associated with serious physical and mental health risks.

Did You Know?

Nearly 1 in 4 adults age 65 and older are socially isolated. The effects extend far beyond loneliness and can significantly impact overall health and well-being.

Research shows that social isolation is associated with:

• 29% increased risk of heart disease

• Approximately 50% increased risk of dementia

• 32% increased risk of stroke

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How You Can Help

Stay Connected

• Call or video chat regularly—even a 10-minute conversation can brighten someone's day.

• Visit in person whenever possible.

• Send cards, letters, or small care packages.

• Remember birthdays, holidays, and other special occasions.

Help with Transportation

• Offer rides to medical appointments.

• Take them grocery shopping or to the pharmacy.

• Drive them to church, senior centers, or community events.

• Help arrange transportation through local community services if you are unable to provide a ride.

Assist with Daily Tasks

• Help with yard work or minor home repairs.

• Pick up groceries or prescriptions.

• Prepare or share a meal together.

• Walk their pet if they have one.

Encourage Social Engagement

• Invite them to lunch, coffee, or a neighborhood gathering.

• Attend church services together.

• Encourage participation at local senior centers.

• Introduce them to clubs, hobby groups, educational classes, or volunteer opportunities.

Bridge the Technology Gap

• Teach them how to use a smartphone, tablet, or computer.

• Help them make video calls with family and friends.

• Set up messaging or social media apps if they're interested.

• Show them how to safely access telehealth appointments and other online services.

Check on Their Well-Being

Pay attention to signs that additional support may be needed, including:

• Missed medical appointments

• Changes in mood or behavior

• Confusion or memory concerns

• An empty refrigerator or lack of groceries

• Difficulty managing medications

• Home maintenance or safety concerns

If you notice any of these warning signs, help connect them with family members, healthcare providers, or community resources.

Volunteer

Many organizations rely on volunteers to help older adults remain safe, healthy, and connected by:

• Making friendly reassurance calls

• Delivering meals

• Providing transportation

• Visiting homebound seniors

• Assisting with community events and outreach

Check During Extreme Weather

During periods of extreme heat or cold:

• Make sure heating or air conditioning is working properly.

• Confirm they have enough food, water, and medications.

• Encourage them to stay indoors during dangerous weather conditions.

• Check in more frequently until conditions improve.

Build a Community of Care

Everyone can play a role in reducing social isolation, including families, neighbors, churches, civic organizations, and local businesses.

Consider:

• Starting a neighborhood check-in program.

• Creating a church phone ministry.

• Organizing volunteer visitation teams.

• Hosting community events that welcome older adults.

• Encouraging employees to regularly check on aging relatives or neighbors.

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Every Connection Matters

Reducing social isolation doesn't require grand gestures. A simple phone call, shared meal, ride to an appointment, or friendly visit can make an older adult feel valued, connected, and supported.

Programs like Wiregrass 211's ComfortCALLS complement these everyday acts of kindness by providing regular reassurance calls, wellness check-ins, and connections to community resources when additional assistance is needed.

Together, families, friends, volunteers, and community organizations can help older adults age with dignity, remain connected, and continue living healthier, more fulfilling lives.

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Sources: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine.

Coming up next... 211 Grows: Development Screening

The ComfortCALLS Story

 

The ComfortCALLS Story

The ComfortCALLS program at Wiregrass 211 grew from a simple observation into a meaningful response to a deeper community need. Through daily interactions, staff and volunteers began to notice a pattern: many seniors were not just calling for information—they were calling for connection. Conversations often lingered, with some callers reluctant to hang up, revealing a quiet but significant reality—many older adults in the Wiregrass region were experiencing isolation and loneliness.

As these observations unfolded, broader trends helped explain why this need was becoming more pronounced. The COVID-19 pandemic had a lasting impact on older adults, many of whom faced heightened health risks and adopted protective behaviors that continued long after restrictions eased. Disruptions to daily routines, increased loneliness, physical limitations, and challenges with technology made it harder for some seniors to re-engage with their communities. As a result, many began leaving home less frequently, relying more on remote services—and experiencing fewer opportunities for meaningful social interaction.

At the same time, Wiregrass 211 was expanding its volunteer capacity through the All In Community Volunteer Program, made possible by support from All In Credit Union. As volunteers became more engaged, conversations within the team began to take shape around a central idea: how to intentionally meet the need for connection they were already witnessing firsthand. Inspired in part by a similar model used by another 211 center, the concept for ComfortCALLS emerged—simple, consistent check-in calls designed to provide companionship and reassurance to homebound seniors.

After a handful of pilot calls in 2023, ComfortCALLS officially launched in October 2024 as a volunteer-driven initiative. The program offers scheduled check-ins, friendly conversation, and emotional support to seniors across the Wiregrass area. What began as a small effort quickly grew as volunteers saw the immediate and meaningful impact of each call.

That growth has been significant. The program expanded from just a few calls in its early days to more than 1,000 calls in 2024 and approximately 2,500 calls in 2025. Volunteers remain at the heart of ComfortCALLS, demonstrating how simple, consistent outreach can make a profound difference in someone’s day.

Over time, ComfortCALLS has evolved beyond conversation alone. Calls now also serve as a bridge to additional support, with staff and volunteers sharing information about seasonal programs such as holiday assistance and farmers’ market applications, while also identifying potential unmet needs. Some volunteers even choose to use traditional telephones rather than headsets, creating a more familiar and comforting experience for the seniors they serve.

Today, ComfortCALLS is a free service available to residents in Houston, Henry, Geneva, Dale, Coffee, Covington, and Barbour counties. Seniors can enroll by calling 2-1-1 or 334-836-1963, Monday through Friday from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The program is currently available to individuals who can understand and speak English.

Looking ahead, Wiregrass 211 plans to launch its First Annual ComfortCALLS Day to raise awareness and emphasize the importance of regular check-in calls—especially during periods of extreme summer heat, when isolation can become even more dangerous. As the program continues to grow, the goal is to expand its volunteer base, reach more seniors, and potentially bring ComfortCALLS to communities across Alabama.

Ultimately, the ComfortCALLS story is one of listening and response—recognizing a need, understanding its causes, and transforming that awareness into action. What began as longer phone conversations has become a vital program that ensures seniors feel connected, supported, and never alone.

Wiregrass 211. Help starts here.

Caregivers need help too.

 

Local Help for Family Caregivers in The Wiregrass Area 

You may not think of yourself as a family caregiver, but if you are helping someone with daily activities, like getting dressed, medication management, and transportation to and from appointments, then you are a family caregiver. Today, nearly 1 in 4 Americans are caring for a family member or close friend, and while it is one of the most important roles you may play, it is often stressful and overwhelming.  

No matter where you are in your caregiving journey — starting to plan; taking care of a family member in your home, in a facility, or from a distance; or managing end-of-life caregiving responsibilities — having resources at your fingertips will make the process easier. That’s why AARP and Wiregrass 211 have teamed up to offer tailored family caregiving support through your local 211 in the Wiregrass. 

This free service is available by simply dialing 211, where you’ll be connected with trained, compassionate 211 specialists in your community who can help find AARP caregiving resources and identify local organizations to address your specific needs. * 

Just call 211 and ask about AARP family caregiving resources in Alabama or visit aarp.org/211care for more information.  

    DIAL - Dial 211 or 1-888-421-1266 to speak with a contact specialist 24/7

   TEXT - Text Your Zip Code to 898-211

   CHAT - Chat Monday-Friday 8:30 am-4:00 pm by going to wiregrass211.com/chat

Wiregrass 211 - Help Starts Here.

*Note: Any information you provide to 211 will be governed by its privacy policy. 

 

Books, Balls, and Blocks

Books, Balls, and Blocks is a free event held for children and their families. The purpose of the event is to screen children for developmental delays in the first 5 years of life.

The event is fun, educational, and exciting! While children engage in games and activities at different stations, parents learn how these interactions help stimulate their child’s healthy development.

Also, while the children are playing, parents complete the Ages and Stages Questionnaire (ASQ-3). The ASQ-3 is reliable, valid, and easy to use. The ASQ-3 is th
e recommended tool to screen young children for developmental delays.

On site, there will be professionals to score the ASQ-3 who will then share the results with the parents to learn if his or her child’s development

1)   Appears on schedule

2)   Needs to be monitored and provided learning activities

3)   Requires further assessment with a professional

Parents will be given resources concerning their child’s development and fun activities that they can do with their child! Free community resources will also be available at the event.

Our hope is for Help Me Grow: Books, Balls, and Blocks

 to be a fun and exciting event, while supporting healthy development among children in our community.

 

Please watch our Facebook page for updates on our upcoming

"Books, Balls, and Blocks" Events.

Our schedule will be posted on our Facebook Page.

Slash Your Prescription Costs Today

 

How to Save on Prescriptions    

Do you experience concern when faced with the rising cost of prescription medications at the pharmacy counter? You are not alone. In the United States, the financial burden of prescription drugs remains a significant barrier to proper medication adherence. According to recent research from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 9 million adults are not taking their medications as prescribed due to high costs. In some cases, individuals may choose not to fill expensive prescriptions at all, while others may attempt to extend their supply by rationing doses—practices that can jeopardize both treatment effectiveness and overall health.

 

How to Save on Prescription Costs

Prescription medications can be expensive, but there are several free and simple ways to reduce your out-of-pocket costs—even if you don’t have health insurance.

·         Visit RxAssist – This website provides information on how to save on both brand-name and generic medications through assistance programs.

·         Request Free Samples or Rebates – If your medication is only available as a brand-name drug, ask your healthcare provider for free samples. You can also check the manufacturer’s website for available rebates or savings programs.

·         Choose Generic When Available – Generic medications are significantly more affordable than their brand-name counterparts and are equally effective. For example, generic Singulair can cost hundreds of dollars less than the brand-name version.

·         Use Discount Programs Like SingleCare or GoodRx – These websites offer free coupons that can help you save up to 80% on thousands of medications, including many life-saving drugs.

·         Ask About a 90-Day Supply – In some cases, getting a 90-day (or longer) supply may be cheaper. Ask your pharmacist to compare the copay with the cash price.

·         Look for Manufacturer Coupons or Assistance Programs – Drug manufacturers often offer savings cards or patient assistance programs directly on their websites.

·         Consult Your Pharmacist – Ask your pharmacist to review your prescription profile. They may identify opportunities to reduce your medication costs further.

 

If you're still struggling to afford your prescriptions, speak with your doctor. They may be able to recommend cost-effective alternatives or connect you with assistance programs that can help you stay healthy without financial strain.

Contact 211 for help with healthcare expenses for the whole family.

211 Connections - March 2025

 

211 Connects

2^nd Quarter Report – January-March 2025

Connections Made This Quarter

• Wiregrass 211 received its HeartSafe designation from SouthEast Health Foundation on January 31st.  Our team received Hands Only CPR training in preparation for the designation, and we were awarded an AED which is housed at our office.
• Wiregrass 211 participated in the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Spotlight on Business at the Dothan Civic Center in February.   
• Marc attended the 211 Connects Alabama Quarterly Meeting in Prattville in February.  The group is working on several projects to enhance 211 services throughout Alabama.  More information to come! 
• Our team completed online training for AARP Caregivers certifications.

211 WORKS – A-RESET

A young woman, struggling with unemployment and searching for a fresh start, reached out to 211 on her mother’s advice. With hope in her heart, she connected with us, and we enrolled her in the ARESET Employment and Training program for SNAP recipients. Through her dedication and hard work, she successfully completed the program—and today, she proudly holds a job at a local company. Her journey is a testament to the power of support, perseverance, and the life-changing impact of 211!

 

211 CARES - ComfortCALLS A single phone call. A simple question: Are you alright? On the other end, a 72-year-old woman from Ozark fought back tears as she shared the truth—what she needed most wasn’t help, but a listening ear. So, we listened. We talked. And as words flowed, so did comfort, filling the space between us with warmth and understanding. By the end of our conversation, her tears had turned into a smile. "Thank you for listening," she said, "and thank you to all who work at 211." This is the power of human connection. A moment of kindness. A reminder that even in life’s quiet moments, no one should feel alone.

Coming Up  Programs and initiatives beginning 2nd half of FY2025   211 CARES    - AARP Caregiver Program 211 V.I.P.        - Veteran Information Program 211 HOPE      - Homeless Coordinated Entry Program   Wiregrass 211 will be at the following events   04/26/2025        Health & Resource Fair – Clayton-Barbour County 05/07/2025        Older Americans Day – Dothan-Houston County 06/07/2025        Juneteenth Celebration and Business Expo-Dothan   Check our Facebook Page for more events!

 

 

AARP/211 Caregiver Support Program

Local Help for Family Caregivers in the Wiregrass
You may not think of yourself as a family caregiver, but if you are helping someone with daily activities, like getting dressed, medication management and transportation to and from appointments, then you are a family caregiver. Today, more than 1 in 5 Americans are caring for a family member or close friend, and while it is one of the most important roles you may play, it is often stressful and overwhelming. 
No matter where you are in your caregiving journey — starting to plan; taking care of a family member in your home, in a facility, or from a distance; or managing end-of-life caregiving responsibilities — having resources at your fingertips will make the process easier. That’s why AARP and 211 Connects Alabama have teamed up to offer tailored family caregiving support through your local 211 in the Wiregrass.
This free service is available by simply dialing 211, where you’ll be connected with trained, compassionate 211 specialists in your community who can help find AARP caregiving resources and identify local organizations to address your specific needs.*
Just call 211 and ask about AARP family caregiving resources in Alabama or visit aarp.org/211care for more information. 

*Note: Any information you provide to 211 will be governed by its privacy policy

for more information please Contact Wiregrass 211:

Dial 211 or 1-888-421-1266

or Text Your Zip Code to 898211