Hello,
I
understand the Aging Network Volunteer Resource Center at n4a is collecting
case studies to highlight successful/innovative volunteer programs in
which an Area Agency on Aging has a role in promoting and managing volunteer
engagement. I wanted to share information about the Boulder County Area Agency
on Aging Respite & Companion Volunteer program.
In
this program, volunteers visit with older adults who are experiencing isolation
or some form of compromised health. These adults either live alone or with a
family caregiver. Volunteers visit two hours a week, must be at least 21 years
old and pass a criminal background check; they are also asked to make a
six-month commitment to the program. Volunteers do not provide hands-on care;
their visits revolve around activities and companionship. Scheduling is
flexible – the volunteer and caregiver/older adult decide on a set weekly
schedule or select visiting times based on their schedule that week. This brief
video shows the Respite & Companion Volunteer Program in action: https://youtu.be/IwMmUkiAhu4
We
currently have about 75 older adults receiving a volunteer visitor and about 85
volunteers (some of whom visit multiple older adults).
I
hope this is of interest—please do let me know if you have any questions. You
can reach me via email or at 720-864-6526.
| Kari Middleton| Respite & Companion Volunteer Coordinator Boulder County Area Agency on Aging | Community Services Department 720.864.6526 (office) | Help Line: 303-441-1617 Resources: BoulderCountyHelp.org | Sign up: Age Well Newsletter | Facebook | |