Volunteer Opportunities at RWJUHThe Hospital Elder Life Program

The Hospital Elder Life Program at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital

The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) at Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital (RWJUH) is a patient care program that aims to provide extra attention and care to older adults admitted to the hospital. The HELP is a hands-on experience with direct patient contact.

The program’s goals are to:

  • To maintain physical and cognitive functioning throughout hospitalization
  • To prevent delirium during hospitalization
  • To maximize independence at discharge

Volunteers are trained to assist in interventions such as:

  • Patient orientation
  • Therapeutic activities
  • Early mobilization
  • Relaxation exercises
  • Feeding assistance and fluid repletion
  • Sleep enhancement

Whether it’s reading the newspaper together, engaging in conversation, providing company during a meal or taking walks, volunteers can make a significant impact in the mental, social and physical health of elderly patients at RWJUH.

Requirements

  • 18 years or older
  • Minimum of one 4-hour shift per week
  • Commitment to 6 months of volunteering
  • Training (flexible schedule available)
    • 4 hours of classroom education
    • 16 hours of shadowing/unit training
  • Must complete hospital Volunteer requirements
  • Must be reliable and be interested in helping others

What Can I Gain?

  • Experience working with older adults
  • Opportunity to collaborate with a multidisciplinary team (PT/OT/ST therapists, nurses, physicians, pharmacists)
  • Opportunity to participate in research projects
  • Confidence working with patients

Complete RWJUH’s Online Volunteer Profile Form.