BDN cites Center on Aging in article on new ways for older people to stay in touch

The Bangor Daily News included the University of Maine Center on Aging in the article “Pandemic pushes older Mainers to learn new ways to stay in touch.” Senior program volunteers with the center are trying out new ways to stay connected, according to the BDN. About 14% are still actively volunteering in other ways, said Paula Burnett, coordinator for the center’s retired senior volunteer program. The program, which operates in Piscataquis, Hancock, Washington and Penobscot counties, is focused on people aged 55 and older who want to help other senior citizens, the article states. Volunteers are calling their clients to check in from a distance while they cannot interact in person. “This is all new territory for everybody,” said Donald Lynch, director of the center’s senior companionship program. Burnett encouraged staying active by walking with a neighbor — 6 feet apart, and taking advantage of technology to keep in touch with loved ones.