Experts tell us that seniors live longer when they are given social opportunities. 

These seniors are involved in a craft project - but more importantly, they are being assisted by their senior companions, people who help them with daily activities.

"It's the perfect program for seniors to help other seniors.  What our program does, we recruit seniors who are 55 and older and we provide them with training and other benefits and they go in to other seniors homes and they help them,” said Suzanne Hull of the Senior Companion Program.

Hull says there is no doubt the program benefits the seniors who require assistance.

"And also for the volunteer as well.  There's many studies that show that by volunteering and helping someone, they have improved health, they're less depressed, they're active, they're engaged, they're doing things with their lives and so they live longer,” said Hull.

The senior companion program cooperates with the kupuna support program here at the Moiliili Community Center. 

Volunteers must be 55 years or older and they receive a modest stipend, training, a meal allowance and travel money. 

82-year old Eleanor Hayashi is grateful for the companionship.

"I like it very much.  I feel very confident when my companion is with me,” she said.

Along with her assistance at this craft workshop, Eleanor's senior companion, Ruby Ozawa helps Eleanor out at home, with shopping and chores.  Ruby says the companionship means a lot to her, too.

"But she's a wonderful, really nice lady, I respect her.  I like her and I hope she says she likes me,” said Ozawa.

The program has been a huge success.

"I know for this year our funding is secure, but going into next year, it's a little bit risky.  So more and more, we're having to show the impact that we make in terms of having our seniors go in and help other seniors,” said Hull.