Volunteers sought to assist dementia and delirium patients

5 Feb 2018

Known as the VITAL program, volunteers provide patients with a friendly face, emotional support and practical assistance at a time when they need it most.

The program is based on a similar program in New South Wales, which found patients with cognitive impairment benefited from person-centred care and meaningful engagement.

St John of God Midland Public and Private Hospitals Coordinator of Volunteer Services Jenni Brown said the program has shown that one on one support and care can help reduce patients’ anxiety and distress levels at being in an unfamiliar environment and assist with their recovery.

“The volunteers provide similar emotional security and care that a loved one or carer would provide to a patient,” Ms Brown said.

“Volunteers also provide practical assistance and delirium preventions strategies, such as encouraging gentle exercises and engaging in appropriate therapeutic activities.

“Feedback has been extremely positive since we launched the pilot last September. It also provides relatives of patients with peace of mind that their loved one is receiving care and engagement when they are unable to be with them.”

With the program proving to be so successful, it is now being expanded to other wards and the hospital is seeking volunteers to assist.

For more information or to volunteer for the program, please email [email protected] or telephone (08) 9462 5409.