The Respite Companion Volunteer provides companionship to the care receiver and respite (a break) for the family caregiver.
The Respite Companion Volunteer needs a heart for caregivers, care receivers and their families; the ability to actively listen and empathize with caregivers and care receivers and a drive to find ways to connect to and build rapport with care receivers who are living with physical and/or cognitive challenges.
Responsibilities include:
- Spend time one-on-one with care receivers in their home doing things like looking at photos or listening to music.
- Communicate with the caregiver to learn their expectations and preferences.
- Maintain the confidentiality and privacy of caregivers and care receivers.
- Schedule respite times with caregivers. Hours are flexible.
You will receive training and ongoing assistance. Care receivers are screened to ensure their needs are appropriate for care provided by a volunteer. They must be able to handle their own toileting needs and be ambulatory.
About You
You are a good match if you love helping people, particularly those with dementia or other chronic conditions; follow through and show up when you make a commitment; are patient and a good listener; and can act independently but know when to ask for help. It is preferred, but not required, that you have been a caregiver yourself.
