Volunteer Training Begins this Fall
SENIOR PEER COUNSELLORS OFFER ONE-ON-ONE EMOTIONAL SUPPORT FOR SENIORS GOING THROUGH GRIEF, LOSS AND LIFESTYLE CHANGE.
S eniors Serving Seniors (SSS), a non-profit society established in 1981, operates two volunteer driven programs for seniors in transition. Senior Peer Counsellors offer one-on-one emotional support for seniors going through grief, loss and lifestyle change. Return to Health volunteers visit isolated and frail seniors returning home from a hospital stay.
The dedication and commitment of SSS volunteers makes these programs possible. Some of the rewards of volunteering with SSS are meeting new people, fun and friendship, learning about seniors’ issues, and satisfaction in contributing to a persons’ well-being.
The quiet power of a listening ear resonates with someone experiencing a difficult time in their life. It’s a philosophy embraced by volunteers. Mary Dolan joined the peer counselling program about 20 years ago and now helps train volunteers. Dolan says, “I really like the whole philosophy of peer counselling, and that the answers are within each of us.”
Approximately 20 clients receive counselling each year. A coordinator matches clients with volunteers who seem a good fit. All discussions are confidential.
“It’s a big part of aging – how to cope, and the simple acceptance that we don’t have control over the things that come our way. But we do have a choice about how we respond,” says Dolan. “Our attitudes determine our happiness. This can be liberating.”
Volunteers complete 36 hours of training – exploring and developing the fundamentals of counselling, including listening skills and self awareness. “The more we understand ourselves, the better we are at understanding and helping others,” explains Dolan.
Return to Health program volunteers visit isolated seniors in their homes following hospitalization. A healthcare professional assesses the client’s needs to determine if these can be met by a volunteer. Clients who are agreeable to receiving volunteer support are matched with a trained volunteer.
Volunteer visitors make a huge difference in the lives of seniors during convalescence, and can help them c onnect with services in the community. Seniors receive in-home visits once a week until they are able to return to normal activities.
Training for volunteers begins in the fall and offers opportunity for seniors, those becoming seniors, and those looking after seniors to understand seniors’ issues. If you are interested in becoming a SSS volunteer, register now for training. Phone: 250-382-4331 for details.