Palm Springs launches program to support isolated seniors
PALM SPRINGS, Calif. (KESQ) – The Palm Springs Police Department is launching a new program aimed at supporting isolated seniors in the city.
The program officially kicked off Monday, Oct. 19, as city leaders work to spread the word about a service they say will connect older residents with vital resources.
According to a University of Michigan national study in 2024, one-third of adults ages 50 to 80 feel lonely or isolated.
News Channel 3 spoke with Palm Springs City Councilmember Grace Garner, who emphasized the city’s goal to support homebound residents.
“If someone is unable to physically leave their home, that creates even more isolation… We don’t want them to lead the rest of their lives alone. We want them to feel the love that Palm Springs has,” Garner said.
Check-ins will typically take place over the phone at a scheduled time that works for each participant. If staff or volunteers are unable to reach a participant, Police Department personnel can follow up with a welfare check at the person’s home.
Palm Springs resident Bob Marlin is among those participating in the program. Marlin, a retired teacher who teaches citizenship classes online, moved to Palm Springs permanently 16 years ago after living part time in Cathedral City for five years. Over his two decades in the region, Marlin noted that his social life changed.
“It slowed down considerably over the years,” Marlin said.
The Palm Springs Police Department stated that Palm Springs Connect is currently available to local residents, with officials aiming to expand participation as more volunteers and community members get involved. City officials have also discussed organizing future events for program participants and homebound residents after building up enrollment.
For those interested in enrolling or referring someone to the program can email pspdconnect@palmspringsca.gov or call the department at 760-323-8116.
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