Memory Visiting Volunteer and/or Placement Student
(Acclaim Health, Community Support Services)
Opportunity Details: Memory Visiting Volunteer and/or Placement Student
Comments | Spend just one hour a week - to chat over coffee, work on a painting or craft, go for a walk or play a game - that's all it takes. Our clients are older adults with memory impairment, often in the early stages of dementia (Alzheimer's). One visit a week can bring an older adult with memory impairment a huge sense of worth and happiness. A little social contact can melt that ice and bring warmth to you both. If you are a Community Support Worker or Social Service Worker student looking for a student placement, contact us to see if you can apply! We are offering 8-month placements and will consider 4-month placements for the rigth candidate! Learn more here: |
Contact | Tanya Peche-Hopley, Volunteer Engagement Coordinator, Acclaim Health; Phone: 905-827-8800 ext 2329; Email: tpeche-hopley@acclaimhealth.ca |
Duties | Clients in the Memory Visiting Program are in need of someone to remind them that they do matter, and to remind them of why they matter. Ask about their interests and their abilities and then use this week after week to guide your conversations and activities. |
More Info Link | https://acclaimhealth.ca/programs/social-supports/memory-visiting/ |
Benefits | - Free Dementia Training available - Insights about how easy it is interacting with someone who has specific health and/or cognitive challenges - Great practical experience for a resume - Networking and community support information - Ongoing support from your Care Manager. - Volunteer recognition and Ongoing Volunteer Educational Workshops |
Clients | Seniors and adults experiencing memory challenges due to any diagnosis/reason. (brain injury, stroke, Parkinson's, dementia such as Alzheimer's, etc) |
Ages | 18 year(s) and up |
Suitable for Highschool Credit Hours | No |
Suitable For | Adults (18+) ; Seniors (55+) ; Post-secondary students ; Persons with a hearing impairment ; Newcomers / English as a second language |
Areas of Interest | Advocacy ; Arts & Crafts ; Community Outreach ; Friend / Penpal ; Mental Health / Addictions ; Music & Performing Arts ; Physical Fitness & Exercise ; Recreation & Sports ; Senior's Activity Support ; Social Interaction ; Special Needs / Differently Abled |
Skills/Experience | Communication & Interpersonal Skills - Care Manager is always available for support ; Confidentiality ; Elder Care ; Listening Skills ; Patience ; Positive / Cheerful Demeanor ; Self-Motivated / Work Independently - A very independent position, 1:1 matches ; Translation & Languages - Must be proficient in English but second languages very welcome ; Willing to keep open communication; Relate easily to others. Respectful of confidentiality. Want to make life better through a friendly connection. Genuinely interested in older adults who are challenged. Dependable. Willing to be a MVP. |
Commitment Length | Long Term - 1 year commitment ; We ask that you assume an ongoing commitment, upon completion of your orientation. We are very understanding and accommodating of vacations/holidays, personal and sick time but no one wants to make a friend only to have them leave within a month or two. Matches are always flexible and will be changed if not a good fit for you. |
Interaction Level | One-on-one |
Minimum Hours | 1 / Week |
Dates and Times | We'll work with you and your schedule to ensure you have the best volunteer experience possible! We do occasionally get clients who would enjoy an evening visit - most are tired by then. We have some clients who welcome a weekend visit but if they have family this is often when they come to support the Senior. |
Seasons | Year Round |
Accessibility | Unknown ; Some client homes are accessible for volunteers with a wheelchair/walker. Most client residences are accessible by public transit or your own mode of transportation. |
Location | Client's home, apartment, supported living or retirement home (Oakville, Burlington, North Halton) |
Number of Positions | Acton: 10 individual(s) ; Burlington: 10 individual(s) ; Georgetown: 5 individual(s) ; Milton: 5 individual(s) ; Oakville: 10 individual(s) 40 individual(s) needed in total. This volunteer position is ideal for anyone entering the health field - giving practical, safe, fun experience in supporting individuals with various challenges. No experience required just genuine care for people and open & ongoing communication. |
Training | Orientation - Volunteer orientation to be completed prior to start date ; Training is provided - Specific client needs & best practices reviewed before introduction ; Training on-going - Free seminars and support/training as needed while with client ; Dementia Training provided free of charge. Ongoing support from your Care Manager. |
Transportation | Near public transit ; Car required - Not required to take client out, but if comfortable then is an option ; We match according to your convenience of location. |
Cost | Cost of Vulnerable Sector Search is not covered but you can keep the original. |
Police Check | Required |
Additional Requirements | Second language is always an asset |
Agency Details: Acclaim Health, Community Support Services
Office Phone | 905-827-8800 |
Toll Free Phone | 1-800-387-7127 |
Fax | 905-827-3390 |
pblakeley@acclaimhealth.ca | |
Website | www.acclaimhealth.ca |
Address & Map |