Companionship Care Frequently Asked Questions
Where and when would I meet with a Volunteer?
M+ volunteers visit South Shore residents in their homes, at skilled nursing and assisted living facilities, and at senior centers or other gathering spots. Volunteers can accompany you out for coffee or a bite to eat of to a social gathering or outing, Volunteers and the individuals they support work out mutually agreeable days/times to connect. Volunteers visit 1x weekly (or less frequently), and as needed.
What would a Volunteer and I do together?
Volunteers are available to take a walk, play a game, read aloud and play music, watch a favorite television program. Volunteers might simply sit and keep quiet company for individuals who don’t have energy or ability to talk. Volunteers are helpful for people coping with loss of independence, social isolation, or chronic illness. Volunteers are also helpful for caregivers who might need to step away within the home (a caregiver or healthcare professionals must be on premises, M+ volunteers are not presently able to provide unaccompanied respite support).
What makes this kind of support especially helpful?
Volunteers can also provide support with “legacy” projects, such as letter writing, photo organizing, and storytelling. This support is helpful for people in advanced-care planning or thinking about end-of-life. Volunteers are also there for supportive conversation, to listen with kindness and curiosity. This support is helpful for anyone grieving the loss of a loved one, going through a challenging time, or just in need of a little TLC.
What can’t volunteers do?
M+ volunteers do not provide any hands-on care. They cannot help people dress, feed themselves, or go to the bathroom. Volunteers cannot administer medication or assist in any medical-related care. They do not engage in housework or chores, and volunteers usually do not visit for more than 2 hours, unless by prior arrangement.
Interested in being a volunteer?
M+ offers volunteers a supportive community providing camaraderie and opportunities for growth and self-discovery. Do you have particular skills or a passion you’d like to share with others? Do you have time and energy to give to others? M+ welcomes people experienced and certified in pet, music, and Reiki therapies; veterans who’d like to connect with other veterans; retired healthcare professionals who’d like to “give back” beyond what their job allowed them to give; anyone who simply wants to give the gift of oneself and one’s time.