In Home Visitation Program
For further information on our In-Home Visitation Program you can reach Tracy at: coordinator@pcpcares.org
What is an in-home volunteer visitation program?
PCPCares’ goal is to provide non-medical compassionate support through community visitation to individuals who live with a life-limiting illness for which no cure is available, as well as support for their families.
We aim to complement the healthcare services that individuals and their families receive and help people experiencing isolation and loneliness. These volunteers will provide companionship, emotional, and respite support.
We are seeking compassionate and dedicated individuals, 16 years of age or older, to join our team and help support those in our community. Your warmth, empathy, and commitment to enhancing the quality of life for those facing life-limiting illnesses will be invaluable.
Why was this program developed?
People living with a life-limiting illness for which no cure is available are at risk of poor quality of life and social isolation. They often have difficulty connecting with resources and support that are important to them. Volunteers can play an important role in addressing these needs and improving quality of life. We have repeatedly heard that patients nearing the end of life want to remain in the home for as long as possible. We want to help them do that.
How was it developed?
Our program was developed after extensive consultation with medical professionals, families, and patients. It became apparent from these discussions that there was a significant gap in emotional and respite support, which, if resolved, would have an impact on the quality of life for clients and their families.
Our program uses the Cumberland Hospice volunteer training, which includes both the Ontario Hospice training and the Canadian Hospice Palliative Care Association training.
How do we fit with the healthcare system?
Our In-Home Volunteer Program was designed to complement the work of healthcare professionals. Our goal is to improve the quality of life of the person and their family. Volunteers develop special relationships with people and have the luxury of time to engage, listen, support decision-making, and assist people with practical things that help to meet their needs.
Volunteers do not engage in the type of healthcare navigation characteristic of the role adopted by doctors, nurses, or social workers.
This In-Home Visitation initiative is a two year pilot project made possible by the following partnerships:
