Keeping Independent Seniors Safe (KISS)
What is KISS?
The KISS program is a free telephone reassurance program for older adults who live independently and want to feel safer and more secure. No one likes to think of the consequences if someone should fall and not be able to contact anyone, or, worse yet, not be found for a few days. What would happen to your pet if you were incapacitated? Unfortunately, these events happen more that we like to think or hear about. The KISS program volunteers help eliminate some of the fears and dangers that living independently entail.
By joining the KISS Program, you know that within 24 hours weekdays, someone will come to your aid.
How Does KISS Work?
Participants are provided with a telephone number to call Monday through Friday between 8:30 a.m. and noon. Those that cannot call the office will receive a call from a volunteer. The call lets the KISS volunteers know that everything is okay. If any participant fails to call or does not answer the phone, it alerts the KISS volunteers that there may be a problem.
If contact still cannot be made, one or more designated contact people (usually a neighbor, friend or relative) are notified and asked to check on the situation. If that fails, the local law enforcement agency is asked to investigate. Special arrangements may be made for participants that need weekend coverage.
Who is Eligible?
You are eligible if you are:
- A Dickinson or Iron County resident.
- Age 60 or older.
- Willing to notify the KISS office when you will be away from home.
Miconceptions About The KISS Program
- That you must live alone (couples are on the program in case something should happen to the caregiver).
- That you must be homebound in your home.
- That you cannot call in before 8:00 a.m. (the KISS program has an answering machine for people to leave messages that they are okay).
How Do You Sign Up?
If you or someone you know is interested in the KISS program, please do not hesitate to call us. We would be happy to assist you with any questions you may have!
Kathy Arnold - RSVP Director
906-774-2256, x223
karnold@dicsami.org
Kendra Trulock - RSVP Assistant
906-774-2256, x224
ktrulock@dicsami.org
1238 Carpenter Ave., Iron Mountain, MI 49801