Live life to the fullest during advanced illness.
A family-centred and community-based approach to improving the quality of life for those impacted by any advanced illness. Volunteers are carefully matched with clients to provide regular support, including respite, companionship, resource sharing, and other practical support. The program aims to help reduce stress and feelings of isolation in patients, caregivers, and their families and promote an active role in living life to the fullest during illness.
A Look Inside the Program:
About the Companion Program
We work with individuals living with advanced illness and their families to facilitate connections and independence and promote quality of life.
Companions are carefully matched with individuals and families to help them connect with people, resources, and services in their communities through a “best fit” family-centric approach.
The program aims to help reduce stress and feelings of isolation in individuals, caregivers, and their families and promote an active role in living life to the fullest during illness.
IT’S FREE!
There is no cost to the client or their family members.
Goals of the Companion Program:
- Enhance the quality of life for individuals and families facing any advanced illness.
- Provide support and encouragement through meaningful companionship.
- Assist clients in engaging in what is meaningful to them.
- Inform clients about appropriate resources in the community.
- Offer assistance with other practical supports.
Companion Program Inquiry
Please fill out this form to learn more about the Companion Program. We will contact you shortly.
If you are interested in becoming a Volunteer Companion please contact our Manager of Volunteer Services.
leeanne.alexander@hospicecalgary.ca
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to common questions about the Companion Program.
Who are our clients?
Adults (18+) with a life-limiting diagnosis can sign up at the time of diagnosis or any time after. Some examples of life-limiting diagnosis’ are: Diabetes, Kidney Failure, Cancer, Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Parkinsons.
Where is this program located?
The Volunteer Companion will meet the client wherever they reside, whether that’s at home, in a hospital, or hospice. Depending on what the client enjoys, the volunteer can also take the client out into the community for walks, visits, etc.
Do the Volunteer Companions have training?
Our volunteers go through a period of training before being matched with our clients and have continued training throughout their time of volunteering. They are not medically trained and cannot provide personal care or physical assistance.
How can a Volunteer Companion help?
Companionship and practical support are the two main focuses. The volunteer could simply be there for the client: sit with the client, visit, listen, play a board game, go for a walk, etc. In a more practical sense, the volunteer could help with paperwork, advocacy, problem solving day-to-day issues, occasional driving, etc.
What is the duration of the program?
From the time of intake through illness and family bereavement. Weekly visits, for 1 – 3 hours
How do I access the program?
There is no referral required. Please fill out the form above and we will be in touch.
Can I volunteer with the Companion Program?
Yes! We are always looking for volunteers. Check out the Companion Volunteer Description and fill out the form above.
Companion Program Supporters
Hospice Calgary relies on funding from donors and funders to offer our exceptional programs. Thank you to everyone who makes this possible!
