Who we serve

We serve seniors who reside in Manhattan from South Ferry to 30th Street, river to river and seniors living in Forest Hills and Rego Park, Queens. Additionally, we receive calls from all over NYC and its surrounding vicinity.
Visiting Neighbors’ clients are age 60 and over. Currently our eldest client is 105 years of age. The average age is 89. Clients tend to be frail, with one or more ailments. We serve a diverse group of individuals, most of whom live on fixed incomes and can’t afford to pay for help. There are no income eligibility requirements, nor a fee for services.

All of our clients are able to self-direct. However, individual personalities vary, with a few who are a bit offbeat or eccentric. The senior who comes to us usually lives alone and has little or no family nearby that they can turn to for support. They are often isolated, nervous about crossing streets and getting to and from their appointments safely. Many have health concerns, have poor communication with their doctors and need help with errands. Our volunteers accompany clients taking them outside for fresh air, to socialize or take a walk.

Our seniors face a myriad of health concerns including loneliness, anxiety, mobility issues. They also face financial struggles and losses of all kinds including family, friends, pets, abilities, income and their pride. Some individuals do not take care of themselves, dismiss their physical problems, ineffectively articulate their needs and/or are fearful of many things including falling, learning about a potential diagnosis, having to cope with more loss in the near future and judgement from others. Many seniors do not feel comfortable asking for help. Visiting Neighbors’ seniors feel more confident knowing we are here to listen, offer support and guidance. We earn their trust. They understand that we do not judge them and know they will be treated with respect, empathy and kindness.

Senior and volunteer