Role of Friendly Visiting Volunteer

Committment

Required: Visit an elder at least 4 times a month for a year Time/Days: Flexible - based upon the need of the elder and availability of the volunteer

Duties and Responsibilities

• Participate in initial training sessions and activitities
• Visit isolated elders at least 4 times a month. If unable to make a visit, contact Elder by phone or through correspondence.

Outreach and Advocacy

• Assist Elders in meeting needs by working together with them, the social service network and the ElderFriends staff
• Keep in contact with ElderFriends regarding progress of the relationship, Elder's needs and changes in the Volunteer's or Elder's circumstances
• Complete and return statistics forms once per quarter

Qualifications

• Desire the establish a relationship with an isolated Elder
• Effective communication skills: ability to listen attentitively and initiate conversation
• Sensitivity to the needs of an isolated Elder facing difficult life circumstances

Benefits

• Satisfaction of helping someone who is isolated and in need of friendship
• Opportunity to make new friends by participating in ElderFriends activities for Volunteers and Elders
• Opportunity to learn from other's life experiences and to attend training sessions on aging related topics and  communication

Guidelines for Visiting Volunteers

Must pass the following criteria:

• Pre-screening

• Interview

• Application process

• Virginia state background check

• Reference checks

• Training

Make a commitment to:

• Visit a minimum of four times monthly

• Continue to visit long term for a one-year minimum

• Assist elder in meeting needs by working together with them and their social service network

Have the following qualifications:

• Desire to establish friendship with an older adult 

• Effective communication skills

• Ability to listen attentively and initiateconversation

• Sensitivity to needs of isolated elders facing difficult life circumstances

Visiting Volunteers DO NOT:

• Cost Money

• Perform chores or errands

• Perform any health care duties

• Get involved in any of your financial matters