GNRC Guardianship for the Elderly Program

The Guardianship for the Elderly program is under the umbrella of the Greater Nashville Regional Council. The Tennessee Commission on Aging operates a statewide public guardianship program for the benefit of the state’s older citizens. The public guardianship program provides conservatorship and related fiduciary services, helping Tennesseans 60 years or older who are unable to manage their own affairs and who have no-one willing and able to act on their behalf. Volunteers are essential in providing care and support to the clients and making sure their living conditions and health are properly documented.

Guardianship for the Elderly Volunteers assist the guardianship program by visiting with an assigned client twice a month (or more often if desired by both parties). Volunteers may build a relationship of trust with the client, so that the client feels comfortable to voice any problems or concerns which otherwise may go unnoticed. Visits with a client can look different as each client has different needs and interests. Volunteers may read to clients, provide company and observe the clients living and health conditions. Volunteers can make a real difference in the lives of seniors, providing both concrete assistance and vital contact, overcoming the isolation and depression often present in older adults.