HELP is a program that serves our older patients (70+) who are at risk of experiencing a delirium (sudden onset of confusion) and functional decline while in hospital.
With direction from the Elder Life Specialist, volunteers provide patients with engaging activities and ensure that patients are comfortable and oriented to their surroundings. As a HELP volunteer, you will assist with providing patients with four interventions activities.
- Daily Visitor and Orientation – provide daily orientation with newspapers, cards from family and friends and orienting conversations.
- Therapeutic Activities – crossword puzzles, word searches, word puzzles, Montessori activities, reminiscing activities and games.
- Active Range of Motion Exercise – active range of motion exercises to keep them physically active (as directed by a physiotherapist).
- Meal Assistance – help fill out menu choices, open packaging, set-up of the meal tray, provide feeding assistance, companionship and encouragement during mealtime.
HELP volunteers are required to participate in HELP volunteer training which includes:
- review of self-directed HELP e-learning modules and the HELP training manual
- an in-class practical skills session
- peer mentoring shifts with the Elder Life Specialist or a veteran HELP volunteer.
After completing the training, volunteers are assigned one 3-4 hour shift per week.