Taking Senior Safety To The Streets

The Area Office on Aging of Northwestern Ohio, Inc. and the Toledo Police Department are working collaboratively to impact the safety of older adults in our community. The Retired Senior Volunteer Patrol program utilizes trained senior volunteers to assess the safety and well being of older adults who are living alone.

The RSVP Patrol was initiated in 2000 and has more than 60 senior volunteers under the coordination and supervision of Community Services Officer Lt. Cheryl Hunt. Volunteers are required to be 55 years of age or older, pass a criminal background check, complete a training program, have a valid driver's license and commit to serving approximately 12 hours per month.

Volunteers utilize city vehicles and work in teams of two to make visits. The primary duty of the volunteer is to check on the safety and welfare of the client. They assess the condition and the environment of the home, if the client seems to be eating properly, if there is any sign of abuse, if there are any changes in the senior's physical health and if there is any need for additional services for the senior. These goals are accomplished with friendly conversation and in no way intrude upon the privacy of the client. Clients are referred to the program by Toledo Police officers, the Area Office on Aging, family members, neighbors, concerned friends or by the seniors themselves.

The RSVP Patrol is a very rewarding volunteer opportunity that helps older adults have a better quality of life and maintain an independent lifestyle. If you are interested in becoming a Patrol volunteer or know of an older adult who could benefit from the program call AOoA at 419-382- 0624 for more information.