Caregiver Support in the Home
“The purpose of visiting volunteers is not always what they can do, but rather how they can be present.”
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Hospice Muskoka’s Caregivers provide friendly in home visits for terminally ill or palliative individuals including companionship, giving family and caregivers the opportunity to attend to other matters or take a well-deserved break. Our volunteers can provide social, emotional, and practical support within the comfort of your home wherever that is in the community. We can arrange for regular visits so you can schedule appointments, run errands, participate in your regular social and recreational activities. Our volunteers are happy to prepare small snacks, write letters/emails, provide pet care, play cards & games, read, or just sit silently while family members rest.
Our volunteers are thoroughly screened, including a Criminal Reference Screening through the OPP to enable them to work with vulnerable persons. All volunteers complete a full orientation on the history, principles, values, policies and procedures of Hospice Muskoka. In addition, visiting volunteers attend the “Fundamentals of Hospice Palliative Care” to understand practical care and simple comfort measures.
Wherever possible, we try to match 1 volunteer to each family to build strong relationships and trust.
For more information, contact our Volunteer Program Coordinator Julie Charters at 705 646 1697 ext. 202 or by email jcharters@hospicemuskoka.com