Frequently Asked Questions

A: Our mission is to help older adults remain active, connected and independent in the homes and communities they love. For that reason, our programs and services are designed for adults age 60 and over who live in the Town of Niskayuna, or within the 12309 zip code area or who reside within the Niskayuna School District.

Q: It’s a wonderful concept, but I don’t need any help yet. Can I just come to your social and educational events since I don’t need any volunteer help?

A: You might consider joining for other reasons than needing direct services 'right now'.

Villages are known for promoting new friendships amongst members and fostering a sense of community with both the members and volunteers. These connections are why Villages have become so vital.

By becoming a member now, you help to assure that we will be there for you in the future when our volunteer support might be just the thing to help you remain independent in your own home.  Keep in mind, accidents do happen even to the most able-bodied. Being a member will give you immediate access to our support.

Q: How do members access a volunteer service?

A. The easiest way is to log into your membership account and on your Member Profile Page select the Village Service Icon (a yellow raised hand). "My Service Request" Screen will come up. Under the "Add Service Request" you can fill in the information for the type of service you are seeking.

Other option would be to call us at 518-631-2402.  If you call and get voicemail, please leave a message as to your name, number and be sure to include a brief description of what you need for a home request or where and when you need to go for an appointment. Make sure you give your name clearly.  We will get back to you as soon as possible.  Every effort will be made to fulfill your request. If we are unable to fill your request with a volunteer, we can help by referring you to a local business or service

Q. How much lead time is needed for service requests?

A. We usually need about a week to fill a service request.  If this is a medical appointment that has just been arranged, we can try to accommodate a shorter period – but there are no guarantees. You should usually tell us about medical appointments as soon as you make the appointment.

Q: Are there any restrictions on the types of services you can offer?

A: We do not offer medical advice, treatment or in-home care. Sometimes a member's needs may be more extensive than we can assist with as a volunteer organization.  Our Resource Page may be helpful in finding the service that you need.

As a volunteer-driven organization we depend on volunteers to fulfill many of the service requests, plan the local events and assist members. If our volunteers are unable to assist with a request, we may be able to recommend a commercial vendor. These vendors are paid for by you and are not covered by the membership dues paid to Niskayuna Neighbors Network. You would call the vendor directly and arrange for the service and an agreed upon fee.

If you need home health care, expertise in transporting due to mobility issues, or professional care management, our volunteers cannot  provide that service but we can help you find the resources you need in the community.

Q: What if both my spouse and I want to join? Or conversely, suppose just I want to join?

A: We offer both individual and household memberships. The household membership can include your spouse or partner, or another friend or family member who is age 60 or older and living with you.