New York, NY (PRWEB) November 21, 2013 -- Working with a volunteer and social worker, Dr. Alexander Imich, who will turn 111 years old in early February, has submitted a request to the Guinness Book of World Records to establish him as the “second oldest man” alive on record. Despite his age, he has been keeping up with technological advancements with enthusiasm and the assistance of his volunteer visitors from DOROT.
Born in 1903, Dr. Imich began his relationship with DOROT when he was a young 105 years old in 2008. He first participated in a class over the telephone with his peers through DOROT’s University Without Walls program – which enables homebound seniors to share ideas and build friendships.
Since 2009, the same dedicated volunteer has visited Dr. Imich weekly in his home as a participant in DOROT’s Friendly Visiting program. Many other volunteers visit him too, including high school and college interns. These volunteers have assisted Dr. Imich over the years with reading, socialization, and computers, including the use of an iPad which was given to him when he was 108 years old. With his eye sight deteriorating, he has had to stop using his iPad, but a new DOROT volunteer visitor will help him with reading so he can continue to learn.
Dr. Imich participates in Holiday Package Deliveries four times per year, which brings him volunteer visitors who not only relieve his social isolation with their companionship, but also bring him a bag of food and seasonal-related items. He also benefits from DOROT’s Shop & Escort program, where trained assistants escort him to medical appointments, the grocery store or on walks.
His volunteer visitor, Keren, who has seen him almost every week for the past four years, said, “Alex and I clicked immediately. He is amazing, his mind is very sharp. Every time I see him, he gives me a big hug – he’s like my grandfather and I am a granddaughter to him. When I first met him, he was addicted to email; his vision loss is frustrating for him as email kept him connected to the world. Now he longs for more human interaction. Visiting Dr. Imich is not mundane volunteer work, it does a lot for your soul.” Dr. Imich also spoke highly of Keren and DOROT. “DOROT has done so much for me and is very helpful. Keren calls me several times a week and visits every Saturday – she is my best friend,” he said.
Dr. Imich is truly an inspiration – not only by reaching his advanced age, but by his desire to stay active and keep up with what is happening in the world. DOROT’s programs help seniors age in place, by escorting them to medical appointments, delivering food to their doors, and providing intellectual and social stimulation. This tailored approach to individual seniors’ needs combined with personal contact truly makes a difference in the lives of older adults.
About DOROT
Since 1976, DOROT has worked to alleviate social isolation among the elderly and provide services to help them live independently as valued members of the community. We serve the Jewish and wider community, bringing the generations together in a mutually beneficial partnership of elders, volunteers and professionals. Visit http://www.dorotusa.org for more information.
Catherine DiTuri, DOROT, http://www.dorotusa.org/site/PageServer?pagename=homepage_DOROT, +1 (917) 441-3745, [email protected]
Share this article