American Society on Aging

Description

Friendly Visitor to nursing home residents

The Frederick County Department of Aging Ombudsman program is looking for volunteers to be "friendly visitors" to residents in Frederick County Nursing Homes. The purpose of the Friendly Visitor program is to promote the well-being and quality of life for long-term care residents by visiting, talking, reading, reminiscing, befriending, and generally enriching the lives of seniors. Unfortunately, with staffing shortages and heavy workloads, too little time is available to facility staff to devote to these activities. Volunteers would be required to attend a four-hour training that would cover the aging process, common problems encountered in nursing homes, resident rights and an overview of the Ombudsman program. It would also include tips for communication, ideas for constructive interaction, and confidentiality. Volunteers would be asked to commit to four hours per week for one year, plus a monthly meeting for problem solving, processing of experiences, and recognition activities. Volunteers would need to have their own transportation to facilities. A background check would also be required at no cost to the volunteer. Please contact Laura Bedwell at (301) 228-2877 for more information.