Volunteer Companion Program

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The Volunteer Companion Program is a one-on-one visiting program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia intended to provide socialization and meaningful activity to the individual, while giving the caregiver opportunity to respite and assisting them in keeping their loved one at home longer.

Volunteer Companion Program, volunteer helping elderly man

Apply to become a Volunteer Companion here.

Apply to be a Participant here - *Currently Waitlisted

 

The Volunteer Companion Program is a one-on-one visiting program for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease or another dementia. Volunteer companions are matched with a person with the disease and visit once a week, during their preferred time, to provide socialization and meaningful activity to the individual. These visits give the caregiver opportunity to respite and assist them in keeping their loved ones at home longer.

There are benefits for individuals involved in all aspects of the program:

The Caregiver

  • Assists in keeping the family member at home longer,
  • Provides a needed break from caregiving responsibilities,
  • Provides peace of mind knowing their family member is being cared for, and enjoying themselves.

The Person with Dementia

  • Reduces isolation,
  • Provides meaningful activity & social interaction,
  • Assists in maintaining current skills,
  • Fosters a sense of pride and respect in themselves and
  • Provides a new friend to share interests, time & companionship.

The Volunteer

  • Provides a new friendship the improves the quality of life for the person with dementia,
  • Develops a sense of achievement, a feeling of giving back, and belonging,
  • Provides an opportunity for personal growth, skill development, social interaction & community relationships.

The Alzheimer Society of PEI will assist caregivers, clients, and volunteers throughout all aspects of the program. We offer a free, comprehensive training program for the volunteers. This is designed to teach companions more about dementia, communication strategies, and visiting tips so they feel prepared for their role as a volunteer companion. An initial meeting is set up by the Education Coordinator and subsequent visits are recorded in a logbook. Caregivers and volunteers are required to check-in with the Education Coordinator monthly to ensure visits continue to be meaningful for everyone.

Remember - Volunteer Companions do what ordinary friends like to do!

Activity Ideas:

  • Reminisce,
  • Take part in a favourite hobby,
  • Play a game,
  • Listen to music,
  • Create a craft,
  • Go out for coffee and
  • Take a walk together.

Volunteers do have the right to place limitations and parameters around activities such as driving and housework. Volunteers are not intended for personal care and are prohibited from administering medications.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer companion, click here to apply.

If you would like to apply as a participant, click here.

Volunteer

Volunteers are the most important resource for charitable organizations like ours. At the Alzheimer Society, volunteer time and energy are essential to help us support people living with dementia.

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The Alzheimer Society of PEI offers resources for people with dementia, caregivers, family members and healthcare providers. Below is a listing of our most up to date resources.

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