Hospital Elder Life Program

[Shadelyn]

Hello all,

I can't seem to find a specific place to post about this so please forgive me if it's in the wrong place. :)

I am volunteering at a hospital this summer in preparation for nursing school. I had an interview and everything went well. I was wondering if anyone has been involved with an elder life program, or knows anything about it. The brochure outlined the basics; spending time with patients over 70 to prevent dementia. If anyone has had any positive/negative experience with this program I would really like to hear (read) about it!

Thanks!

[begalli]

What type of hospital Aleasha? Will you be an activities type person?

[Shadelyn]

I'll be at UPMC Shadyside. From their website they offer a broad range of specialties that include cardiology, oncology, orthopedics, geriatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, vascular medicine, endocrinology, and more.

I haven't started into the training yet, so I'm not sure of what I'll be doing. From the little information I do have I know that I'll probably be helping out at mealtime encouraging fluids and nutrition. Also helping with relaxation and recreation. They use the HELP program on I think 3 floors with older patients that are classified as at risk for dementia.

I don't really have experience with the elderly, so I'm not sure what to expect, but the volunteer coordinator says it's a good intro to nursing.