CMHA Kootenays trains volunteers
specifically for volunteering with the Seniors Friendly Visitors Program.
This program provides in-home volunteer services for at-risk seniors
in the Cranbrook area.
At-risk seniors are referred
to the program through a variety of community sources including the
Cranbrook Community Response Network (CCRN), social services / mental
health agencies, and family members.
The Seniors Friendly Visitors
Program is designed to provide service to those who are:
- socially isolated
- at home and require
assistance to continue independent living
- in supportive housing
and require assistance to continue independent living
- at risk of self-neglect
because they lack family or social supports
- at risk of physical,
emotional, psychological, or financial abuse by others
- at risk of substance
abuse
- physically disabled
- reluctant to, or not
capable of, referring themselves for assistance
- lacking in life skills
Volunteers provide services
that may include the following:
- basic assessment of
domestic conditions
- volunteers may be the
first to notice changes in function or habits that add to a participant's
risk
- social interaction,
which may include home visiting, visits to friends or family, or
social activities
- home care, maintenance
and other services
- friendship and understanding
If you know seniors or
volunteers that may benefit from this program, please contact Melissa Bax at 426.8019 ext 33
