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The United States is experiencing a significant demographic shift as its population ages. The number and proportion of older adults are increasing, while the population aged 85 and over is expected to grow particularly rapidly in the coming decades.
This demographic transition is accompanied by growing challenges related to loneliness and social isolation. Older adults who live alone, have limited family or social networks, face mobility difficulties or live in geographically isolated areas can be particularly vulnerable. These challenges vary considerably across the country, from densely populated urban areas to rural communities where distance and limited access to services can further increase isolation.
Against this backdrop, maintaining social connections and enabling older adults to remain active and included in their communities are becoming increasingly important issues. LBFE responds to these challenges by creating lasting relationships, strengthening community connections and providing practical support tailored to local needs.
Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly (LBFE) is a network of four nonprofit, volunteer-based organizations in the United States committed to reducing loneliness and social isolation among older adults through friendship, companionship and community engagement.
The LBFE movement in the United States began in Chicago in 1959. Today, the network brings together four chapters located in Chicago, Cincinnati, San Francisco and Upper Michigan. Each chapter operates independently and adapts its programs to local needs, while sharing a common mission: building meaningful and lasting relationships with older adults experiencing loneliness and social isolation.
Volunteers are at the heart of LBFE’s approach. They build relationships with older adults through regular home visits, telephone calls, social gatherings, holiday celebrations, outings and other forms of individual companionship. These regular interactions help older adults maintain social connections and a sense of belonging within their communities.
Depending on local needs, LBFE also provides practical support to help older adults remain independent and connected. Activities include food assistance, transportation and accompaniment to medical appointments, digital inclusion, recreational activities and connections to local services.
Through LBFE’s Visiting Volunteer Program, isolated elders enjoy the support, empathy and friendship of dedicated volunteers. Often building long-term friendships these volunteers can become like family members celebrating special occasions and enjoying life’s simple pleasures together.
Holidays and birthdays are often the hardest time of year for isolated and lonely older adults. LBFE provides visits and in-person gatherings on many occasions year-round, with special celebrations on birthdays, Thanksgiving Day, July 4th, Valentine’s Day, and other significant days.
Dialogue between generations benefits both younger and older people. LBFE’s intergenerational activities not only promote friendships across generations but also build a more inclusive society for people of all ages.
Friendship is at the heart of LBFE’s approach. Older adults experiencing loneliness or limited social support are connected with volunteers who provide regular one-to-one companionship. Depending on individual needs and local programmes, these relationships may include home visits, telephone calls, walks, outings or simply spending time together. The aim is to build meaningful, long-term relationships that strengthen social connection, well-being and a sense of belonging.
LBFE organizes regular social activities throughout the year to create opportunities for older adults to meet, celebrate and develop relationships. Activities include birthday celebrations, holiday gatherings, shared meals, outings and community events. These moments are particularly important during holidays and other occasions when loneliness can be especially difficult. They provide welcoming spaces where older adults and volunteers can share experiences, create memories and strengthen their sense of community.