By Sandra M. Borges | Special to the NB Indy
In Orange County, approximately 95,000 adults ages 65 and older live alone, and it’s not by choice. Newport Beach resident Marc Iannini identified this problem after the loss of several of his uncles, leaving their widows in a lonely state of isolation.
“Losing a loved one is sort of like losing a part of yourself,” said Iannini.
In an effort to tackle nighttime loneliness among elders after losing a spouse, he launched Better2Gether365, a concierge-led companionship-after-loss service.
Pivoting away from the common matchmaking in dating apps, Better2Gether365 is not focused on romance. Instead, it matches older adults who are looking for someone to share a home life with.
“We’re definitely trying to match compatible, independent older adults together,” said Iannini.
Matches are based on factors such as interests, lifestyle, background, and whether a person hopes to remain in their current home or move somewhere new.
This niche process is gradual and carefully curated. After the concierge has introduced the potential housemates, they are encouraged to complete about five hour-long phone calls over one to two weeks. The concierge then touches base with both individuals to suggest that they share their experiences before moving forward in the process.
That personalized assistance continues even after a matched connection is made. Better2Gether365 helps members prepare emotionally, review moving checklists, and locate moving services. Once the members begin living together, the company provides approximately 60 days of follow-up support.
“We check in and let them know that we’re still there if they need us,” said Iannini.
Currently, Better2Gether365 is in a pilot program in which it offers its first 100 participants the complete matching service at no cost until they are matched and have lived together for one month.
“To keep us accountable, we have to live up to our end of the deal by providing them 10 quality matches, and hopefully they do their phone calls, and they have their meetings,” said Iannini.
To schedule an initial consultation, visit www.better2gether365.com.
