Mackenzie Health's Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) is a volunteer based program that provides targeted interventions that address a broad scope of geriatric issues known to contribute to cognitive and functional decline during hospitalization. These include: cognitive decline and stimulation activities,therapeutic activities, sleep enhancement strategies, hearing and visual aids and individualized care planning.
Older patients find particular comfort in the assistance of well trained, calm, patient and caring lay people. Under the direction and supervision of expert staff, specially trained volunteers can significantly prevent declines in both mental/cognitive and physical functioning.
HELP works with the nursing staff to ensure that older patients remain as independent as possible throughout hospitalization. The specific program goals are to maintain physical and cognitive functioning throughout hospitalization, to maximize independence at discharge, to assist with the transition from hospital to home and to prevent unplanned readmission.
More Information
Contact the Elder Life Specialist at 905-883-1212 ext. 4864 from Richmond Hill or at 905-832-4554 ext. 4864 from across Vaughan.
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