When pandemic lockdowns cut many of Cayman’s elderly residents off from the outside world, Red Cross volunteers stepped in to help. Five years later, that vital response – known as the ‘Support Our Seniors’ programme – has evolved into an important social safety net, connecting elderly residents with transportation, companionship and practical assistance.

Launched in October 2020 in partnership with the Department of Children and Family Services, the initiative was originally created to protect seniors from the twin threats of COVID-19 and social isolation.

In 2025, it continues to ensure that elderly residents can access medical appointments, prescriptions and daily essentials while also tackling one of the most overlooked public-health issues – loneliness.

“COVID exacerbated the isolation of our elderly communities and as our society loses some of its emphasis on family traditions, our older persons are likely to experience more loneliness,” said clinical psychologist Shannon Seymour.

It’s a growing global concern. Studies show that up to half of adults over 65 struggle with loneliness – a figure that, if mirrored in Cayman, means more than 3,500 seniors may be living with the issue.

“Our seniors are the foundation of these islands,” said Jondo Obi, director of the Cayman Islands Red Cross. “They are our teachers, our storytellers, our history keepers. They deserve more than survival – they deserve to thrive. With Support Our Seniors, we are making that possible.”

A growing network of care

The scale of the programme underscores its growing importance. In 2025 alone, Red Cross volunteers completed more than 600 essential trips for 32 seniors across Grand Cayman, transporting them to dialysis, therapy and doctor appointments. Volunteers also assist with grocery runs, medication pickups and small household tasks.

“Many times, the care of our seniors falls on their family members,” said Obi. “But these family members are also working, supporting their households and cannot always be available. That’s where the Red Cross comes in.”

For some seniors, these small acts have been life changing.

One senior who depends on hours of dialysis at the hospital three times each week described how the programme has eased the burden of public transportation and given her peace of mind.

“I used to take the bus,” she said. “When the Red Cross started helping me, it was such a blessing. Even on holidays, when they weren’t working, volunteers still came.”

Another senior living with a disability said, “I need help with errands, shopping and appointments. Whenever I call, there’s always someone available. They take me where I need to go, and I am very grateful.”

Relieving pressure on social services

The Department of Children and Family Services says the partnership has been instrumental in easing the strain on its overextended social workers.

“Our social workers do an incredible job supporting the elderly, but the demand is immense,” said DCFS Director Paulinda Mendoza-Williams.

“Having the Red Cross and its volunteers working alongside us makes all the difference. It relieves some of the challenges our team faces and ensures that more seniors get the support they deserve, when they need it most.”

For volunteers, the work has built meaningful relationships, making the losses felt along the way profoundly personal. Since the programme’s inception, four senior participants have passed away – losses that, according to volunteers, took a personal toll.

“Yes, we drive people to appointments, but it’s more than that,” said Daisy Morrison-Hanson, a longtime volunteer. “You realise it’s the companionship, the reassurance that means the most.”

Rising demand

Community partnerships have been key to sustaining the programme’s reach. A donation of a vehicle from TRAC Automotive allowed the Red Cross to double the number of seniors served, but Obi says demand continues to rise. Each week brings new referrals through the Red Cross referral centre and the Department of Children and Family Services, which jointly assess each case to match volunteers with seniors in need.

Looking ahead, the Red Cross plans to introduce a ‘buddy system’ in 2026 that will pair volunteers with specific seniors for regular visits and phone calls – a proactive effort to combat loneliness, which has been linked to chronic illness.

As Cayman marks Older Persons Month, the Red Cross is urging the public to check in on elderly neighbours and family members, especially during hurricane season when seniors are among the most vulnerable.

Those who wish to refer a senior in need can email vrm@redcross.org.ky or call 949-6785.

“If you know of an elderly person who may need support, please contact the Red Cross,” said Obi, “Together, we can make sure no senior is left behind.”