Memory Visiting Volunteer and/or Placement Student

(Acclaim Health, Community Support Services)

Position ID: V-HVC0113
Last Full Update: 09 Nov 2023

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.  
 
This volunteer position is ideal for anyone who wants an easy way to make someone feel special and could also be an ideal experience for anyone entering a career in supporting or helping people. 
 
No experience required - just compassion and joy. Education about mild challenges with memory, resources for activities, networking opportunities, and ongoing support for you and your client by the Care Manager.

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:

Memory Visiting Student Placement - Acclaim Health

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.  
 
You’ll provide a friendly social connection outside of the client’s normal social sphere and engage the client in activities or conversations that appeal to the client’s unique interests and abilities. This may involve looking at family photos, going out for a walk, or simply sharing coffee and conversation. 
 
You’ll also be giving the family caregiver(s) a short break – a very important part of the support you’re providing. 
 
Training is available to assist you in supporting your client. The training includes suggested activities and strategies you can use to engage your client. Plus, our Care Managers are always available to support you and your client. 

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
E-Mail pblakeley@acclaimhealth.ca
Website www.acclaimhealth.ca
Address & Map
2370 Speers Rd
Oakville, ON L6L 5M2
 
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