Companion Link for Seniors: Volunteer Seniors Visiting

About VHA Home HealthCare

VHA Home HealthCare (VHA) is one of the largest not‑for‑profit home care providers in Ontario. Our team is made up of close to 3,000 caring and committed professionals who love what they do. Our providers tell us: “Home care is where I can truly make a difference. There is such a sense of accomplishment from helping people live independently at home.” Our teams work together to provide high quality, client‑centred care to those who need it most in their homes, schools, retirement homes and other community settings. Many of our team members manage their own schedules in the community and they say, “The freedom and flexibility can’t be beat.” Providers form meaningful bonds with the clients and families they serve over time and are supported by a diverse regional team and beneficial home office programs. Team members tell us “I love the inclusive culture. I feel welcome and at home.”

Social isolation and loneliness are growing concerns that significantly impact the health and well‑being of seniors. Social interaction has been shown to improve mood, enhance quality of life and avoid detrimental events such as falls, hospitalization and premature morbidity.

Role Overview

Seniors Visiting Volunteers will play a role in addressing social isolation and loneliness among seniors through social interaction. Volunteers will visit seniors in a facility setting and engage in meaningful conversation and when deemed appropriate, gentle activity such as games, puzzles, and cards. The facility in east Toronto is a 24/7 inpatient facility supporting frail seniors at risk. All volunteers must self‑screen before arriving on the unit and on entry into the unit. Volunteers must follow IPAC guidelines on hand hygiene, use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE). Use of PPE will be reviewed and monitored by the unit manager.

Area Served

East Toronto, Kingston Road/Woodbine

Responsibilities

• Visit seniors weekly – same day/time for 4 hours (Weekdays; 9:30am – 1:30pm)
• Engage in meaningful conversation with seniors/residents
• Engage in simple, gentle activities when deemed appropriate such as games, puzzles, cards
• Must be sensitive to clients with cognitive impairment; hearing and vision needs; clients high risk for falls
• Volunteers must follow the direction of the unit manager/supervisor in the event of an emergency or urgent clinical need that may take priority over volunteer activities
• Volunteers must report any client‑related concerns or changes to the supervisor/manager onsite; volunteers must follow all health and safety procedures, emergency procedures, policies, procedures and boundaries
• Volunteers must check in and out with the unit manager or floor supervisor on arrival and before leaving
• Volunteers must commit to a regular, ongoing schedule

Time Commitment

• 4 hours plus travel time per week
• Visits are weekly, on weekdays, 9:30am – 1:30pm
• Able to commit for minimum of 24 weeks

Working Conditions

Visits occur in a congregate setting with frail seniors in Toronto, East.

Skill Requirements

• Related experience caring for older adults/seniors
• Strong oral communication skills
• Strong active listening skills
• Friendly and caring attitude
• Experience and sensitivity to working with culturally diverse individuals and families
• Creativity in planning and implementing gentle activities when appropriate
• Previous volunteer experience, engaging socially with seniors, an asset
• Understanding of the aging process, impact of aging on the individual and family an asset
• Background in gerontology, social work, social services an asset

Benefits

• Volunteers are supported through orientation, training (online and in person) meetings, workshops, seminars, and one‑to‑one support.
• Career‑related experience.
• We provide an environment where volunteers are engaged, challenged & rewarded.
• Opportunities to meet new people.
• Develop social and professional networks.
• Build on your communication, interpersonal and leadership skills.
• Gain valuable work experience to build your resume.
• Support your community.
• Enhance clients' lives and deliver life‑changing supports and services.
• Verification letter upon request following 100 hours of volunteer service.
• Program Assistant or Coordinator or Supervisor will be available for feedback and support.

Accommodation and VHA’s Commitment to DEI

At VHA Home HealthCare (VHA), we passionately strive to uphold our commitments to being an Equal Opportunity Employer. We champion inclusion and diversity in all parts of our organization and are strong believers that a diverse workforce is key to the ongoing and future success of VHA. We aim to review all applicants with fair and unbiased recruitment practices where opportunities are presented based on merits, skills, and experience. VHA is committed to providing reasonable accommodation and our services are accessible and sensitive to the needs of diverse groups.