Theresa Williams has been a volunteer at Blair Senior Services, Inc. for 6 years as a Senior Companion.
Theresa, who was forced into retirement after an injury, started to feel like she needed something else and wanted to supplement her income. “After a few years, I had some boredom and wanted to do something else. I enjoy taking care of people so the Senior Companion Program was perfect for me,” she said.
As a Senior Companion, Theresa assists consumers by providing assistance around the home, sharing in conversation about past memories, or even attending social events together.
“I enjoy being a Senior Companion because I enjoy building those relationships,” Theresa said. “I love being able to make them laugh and to see that I am making a difference in their day.”
Along with all of the other companionship roles, Theresa can also provide transportation when needed for her consumers. “I always enjoy taking them grocery shopping. I think it’s fun to take them out to the store, and it’s nice to see them getting out. We always have a lot of fun,” Theresa commented.
Along with being a Senior Companion, Theresa also works as a Certified Nurses Aid (CNA) at Hillview Healthcare and Rehabilitation Center and assists with activities and breakfast at Allegany Lutheran Social Ministries (ALSM) for the residents. She is also a family caregiver, taking care of her mother full-time.
“I’m a very busy person, so my time with my clients through the Senior Companion Program is really helpful to me. It’s very relaxing,” she said. “It lets me press pause on my day to really focus on the clients and assisting them.”
Along with the relaxation, Theresa feels with being a Senior Companion, she’s also found a second family. “My clients have become like a second family to me. There are some that I just have a great relationship with and we share so many things together,” she shared.
Above all, Theresa enjoys the rewarding aspects of her role the most. “It’s very rewarding to be there for people and to help them with every day things,” she stated. “I never would’ve pictured myself doing something that I love so much. Blair Senior Services has really helped me along the way and I couldn’t be more grateful.”
If you are interested in volunteering for Blair Senior Services, Inc.’s Senior Companion Program, please call 814-946-1235.