The Volunteer Center in Umeå is currently seeking volunteers with roots in Tornedalen and/or who speak Meänkieli to make home visits and provide a golden edge in everyday life to elderly people experiencing loneliness. According to Rut Niska Säfström from the association Tornedalingar i Umeå, there are many elderly people in Umeå who would appreciate contact with other Tornedalingar who share both language and memories from their homeland. The program aims to address social isolation among older residents by connecting them with volunteers who understand their cultural background.
It remains unclear how many volunteers are currently needed or have been recruited for this initiative. The specific number of elderly people in Umeå who are experiencing loneliness and could benefit from this program has not been disclosed. The timeline for when the volunteer home visits are expected to begin has not been announced.
Whether there are any eligibility criteria or training requirements for the volunteers beyond having roots in Tornedalen or speaking Meänkieli is unknown. How the program will measure its impact or success in reducing loneliness among the elderly has not been detailed.