The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) is a nationally recognized model of care that enhances the hospital experience for older adults by preventing delirium, promoting independence and improving overall health outcomes.
Volunteers are a vital part of the HELP team, providing personalized support through daily activities tailored to patients’ specific risk factors for developing delirium. Each shift, volunteers connect one-on-one with patients through meaningful activities. These might include conversation to help with orientation, assisting independence by encouraging mobility, offering activities that reduce stress and combat isolation, and providing support and companionship during meals to reduce barriers and boost nutrition. By engaging patients in this programming, volunteers help preserve cognitive function, prevent hospitalized complications, reduce feelings of isolation and bring comfort during vulnerable moments.
HELP volunteers play a key role in improving patient well-being while gaining valuable, hands-on experience in geriatric care. It’s a rewarding opportunity to strengthen clinical skills, build meaningful connections with patients and contribute to safer, more compassionate hospital experiences.
