McLean Launches First of Its Kind Memory Care Volunteer Program - Volunteers Needed!

The Memory Care Volunteer Program represents a unique opportunity for the Farmington Valley community. McLean works closely with the Alzheimer’s Association, and has learned that there is no model for this program yet the need is significant. The McLean Memory Care Volunteers will provide non-medical services as needed for the Memory Care client and their family. The broad range of services for clients may include one-to-one social interaction, writing life histories, reading aloud, music therapy, sensory activities and other interventions that enhance quality of life by reducing anxiety. The program offers support for caregivers. It is modeled after the very successful McLean Hospice Volunteer Program. Clients may be served in their home or in assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility.

The orientation and training will consist of 12 hours featuring a curriculum handbook along with presentations from experts and guest speakers on a wide range of topics. There will be a mentoring component, so that new volunteers can gain a practical understanding of the work. The program will also require volunteers to participate in valuable monthly in-services on timely topics.  Visits with clients may vary based upon their needs and volunteer availability.

The first class will take place in September. Orientation is on Tuesday, Sept. 3rd at 9 AM with training Tuesdays and Thursdays at McLean, 75 Great Pond Rd. Simsbury.

Visit www.McLeanCare.org and click on Volunteering to get the Memory Care Volunteer Application. Applications for the first class are due by August 16. For further information, call Gao Vang, Volunteer Coordinator for Memory Care, 860-658-3941.