St. Joe’s Volunteers Celebrate Seniors Month
June is Seniors Month in Ontario and this year’s theme is “Working for Seniors.” Volunteers are part of the healthcare worker community at St. Joe’s that support seniors every day. Volunteers share their empathy, compassion and generosity to serve the needs of patients, families and the entire St. Joe's team.
There are many reasons why individuals choose to volunteer at St. Joe’s. For some, it’s an opportunity to build a resume, gain skills and experience. For others — including many older adult volunteers who are seniors themselves — it may be an opportunity to stay connected or stay physically and mentally fit. Volunteering has health benefits for older adults, including significant physical, emotional and cognitive or brain health benefits.
Meet three St. Joe’s volunteers who are making a difference for seniors — and all patients — in our community.
Liz DeJong (81 years young), Ambassador Volunteer, Charlton Campus
What inspired you to start volunteering with St. Joe’s?
To volunteer was natural as a retired RN, who trained at St. Joe's. I trained when the Mary Grace and Fontbonne wings opened. This is when the original house was still standing.
How does your role assist senior patients/visitors?
As an ambassador at the main entrance, I assist people navigate around the hospital. Directing and escorting them to the many areas of the hospital. I am especially aware of the anxiety of the elderly, because I know from my own experiences how anxious it can be going to a doctor or for a test. They are coming in because of a health concern or issue and they have been referred to a specialist or to get some test done. I try to make them feel more relaxed by acknowledging this anxiety. Some have even asked me to pray with them.
How does volunteering benefit your physical, emotional and brain health?
Volunteering in this position keeps me very active as I’m on my feet for a few hours. It keeps me mentally on a high as I have a purpose. So many people are thankful.
What message would you share with others interested in volunteering with St. Joe’s?
If you are thinking about volunteering, this is the place to be. You are appreciated in many roles and there are a great variety of roles available.
Allison Fang, CARE Volunteer on the Seniors Mental Health Unit, West 5th Campus
Allison Fang is a CARE volunteer on Forest 1, Seniors Mental Health Unit at West 5th who wanted to be more involved in the community. As someone interested in a career in health sciences, she knows that volunteering at St. Joe’s will allow her to develop useful skills and explore her passion while being able to serve and help others.
“This experience is meaningful and I’m learning a lot. I love when a patient tells me that they enjoyed the group activity and leave with a smile. I also love when a patient is discharged from the hospital, it means they are healing and getting better,” said Allison.
The role of the CARE (Comfort, Assistance, Resources and Engagement) volunteer is to support independence and improve physical, cognitive, emotional and social functioning through meaningful engagement by providing opportunities for social engagement. This role allows Allison the opportunity to interact with seniors one to one and in groups. Her goal is to do her best to enhance the patient’s stay and overall experience in the hospital.
“Allison is a valuable asset to the team. She helps staff to facilitate various groups on the Seniors Inpatient Mental Health unit including baking, gardening and an art group. Her patience and positive attitude brighten up our patient’s day. She interacts well with all of the patients who look forward to her weekly visits,” said Elizabeth Harrison, Occupational Therapist, Forest 1.
Sunil Mahesshwari, Hemodialysis Volunteer, King Campus
What inspired you to start volunteering with St. Joe’s?
I wanted to give back to St. Joe's for all the things they have been doing for me and my family.
How does your role assist senior patients/visitors?
My role is to greet patients and visitors to the Hemodialysis unit at King Campus. I assist patients with DARTS transit, taking them to their chair, bring food/coffee from cafeteria or take them to other clinics for their appointments. I also assist to ensure the unit looks clean and organized-make sure there are enough gloves, masks and cups are available.
Seniors feel secure as they are greeted by a volunteer. They are happy to see a volunteer because they feel all their needs are looked after.
How does volunteering benefit your physical, emotional and brain health?
Volunteering increases my self-confidence, self-esteem, life satisfaction that I am doing a good deed. it also helps me stay physically healthy, relaxes my mind and body by getting rid of any stresses.
What message would you share with others interested in volunteering with St. Joe’s?
It's a very rewarding experience and gives you a good feeling that you are assisting the seniors and patients with their needs at the hospital. You will gain experience if you are looking for career in hospital/healthcare setting. You also have an opportunity to meet new friends. It is a great way to give back to your community and St. Joe's.
St. Joe’s would like to thank all of its volunteers for their remarkable contributions. The simple act of volunteering can also help us develop empathy – building our capacity to work collectively and contribute to a vibrant, inclusive society.
Click here if you’re interested in joining St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton as a volunteer or learning how your service can make a meaningful difference to patients and families throughout our community.