Baycrest Volunteer Handbook
16
• Introduce yourself by name and explain why you are there
• Speak directly to the client
• Look for experiences/activities that will be stimulating and
enjoyable
• If you are taking the client off the unit, inform staff and sign the
person out and back when you return as directed by your
supervisor
• Ensure the client is comfortable before leaving
• Inform staff of any concerns yo
u may have regarding the client
•
Remember even with cognitive changes like memory loss,
social and emotional capabilities are often still intact
Activities that do not have conversation as the main focus:
• Listening to familiar music
• Reading a book/newspaper to a client
• Going for a walk
• Playing cards, a board game, dominos or solving a puzzle
• Attending a recreational program (volunteers should ask st
aff
first,
as not all programs are open to everyone)
• Using artwork, fish tanks, sculptures and nature as stimulus
for responses
The older adult in a nursing home retains a sense of identity, a
sense of themselves in relation to others, and personal
preferences.
Although there might be cognitive or physical losses, they still have
a perspective about things that are important to them.
Volunteers are not expected to:
• Provide personal care
• Assist with resident lifting or other physical activities
of this nature
• Dress residents
• Give out medication of any kind
• Take directions from Private Companions or family members
