Help Elderly Patients Thrive at Maine Medical Center!

Volunteers are needed to play a vital role in enhancing the patient experience by providing care, compassion, and support to those in need.

Southern Maine Agency on Aging is teaming up with MaineHealth Maine Medical Center - Biddeford and Maine Medical Center (Portland) to recruit volunteers for the Hospital Elder Life Program.

As a volunteer in Maine Health's Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP), you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of patients of the age of 70.  You'll help them maintain their dignity, health, and well-being. Whether you're helping patients stay active, engaged, or simply offering a comforting presence, your contribution will help improve their hospital experience.

Volunteer Role Highlights:

You will actively support older patients in various ways, including:

-Daily Visitor: Offer orientation, communication, and social support.
-Feeding Assistant: Help with meal setups and provide companionship during meals.
-Therapeutic Activities: Encourage social interaction and mental engagement during bed rest.
-Early Mobilization: Guide patients in simple exercises or walking to promote mobility.
-Sleep Enhancement: Help create a peaceful, relaxing sleep environment.
-Vision/Hearing Support: Provide adaptive equipment as needed.

Skills & Qualities We're Looking For:

-A passion for working with elderly individuals.
-Warm, caring demeanor with excellent communication skills.
-Ability to motivate and engage patients in activities.
-Reliable, self-motivated, and dependable.
-Empathetic listener with a strong sense of patience.
-Detail-oriented with a commitment to confidentiality and safety protocols.

Commitment & Schedule:

-3-hour weekly shifts, with various days and times available.
-Minimum Commitment: 6 months.

Where will the volunteer(s) work:  MaineHealth Maine Medical Center - Biddeford; OR Maine Medical Center, Portland Hospital; on direct patient-care units

Perks & Benefits for Volunteers:

-Free parking at the hospital.
-$10 daily allowance for the cafeteria and Pavilion Grill.
-Opportunities for additional training and development.
-Invitations to our annual volunteer recognition events at MaineHealth Maine Medical Center - Biddeford/Maine Medical Center - Portland and Southern Maine Agency on Aging!

Training & Orientation:
Volunteers will undergo a general hospital orientation. The Elder Life Specialist will also provide a specific program training. Training typically is a total 12-15 hours. This includes a combination of classroom training and precepted practice with a seasoned volunteer/staff member. Volunteers also participate in periodic retraining and a formal quality assurance process.

If you're looking for a rewarding volunteer opportunity where you can make a tangible difference in the lives of elderly patients, we’d love to have you join our team. Apply today and help us provide high-quality, personalized healthcare to those who need it most!

Contact Sothern Maine Agency on Aging Volunteer Services to get started at volunteer@smaaa.org or 207-396-6595.