Needs From: Lowcountry Volunteer Connections

We could all use a break from time to time! It's especially important for those who are taking care of others! They spend countless hours making meals, attending to medical needs, aiding in daily activities and improving the quality of life for other people. But what about their quality of life?

Studies show that those who are full-time caregivers for others often find themselves struggling with physical, mental and emotional stresses that they do not take care of. What if you could help?

Spending as little as three hours a week, you can help people get the well-deserved break they need! They can take this time to go for a walk, prepare a meal without interruption, read or run errands. Some caregivers may also take the time to have a date-night with their spouse, go to a social outing or attend church.

Your role as a volunteer would be to visit the family home and provide a presence for their loved one. Sometimes this means interacting with the person being cared for and sometimes it means sitting quietly and watching t.v. or reading until the caregiver returns. Mainly, you are there to ensure a safe and comforting environment, giving the caregiver confidence to step away and take a break.

Volunteers are expertly matched with the families in need. Things such as distance from volunteer's home, personality and interests are all taken into consideration when connecting a volunteer with a family.

Do you have a pet certified to visit healthcare facilities? Our guests, visitors and team would greatly benefit from pet therapy! While our residents may not always interact with our "human" visitors, they often find great joy in seeing our pet visitors. These visitors may remind residents of pets they once had and gives them a chance to experience the joy of having a pet once again.

Pets may also bring comfort to those who are at the very end of life by "snuggling" in bed or visiting at the bedside. Family members and paid staff enjoy the company too!

We care for those who live in healthcare facilities and do not receive many visits outside of the healthcare team. Volunteers provide positive engagement to attempt to decrease isolation and negative feelings. Whether it's reading aloud, having a conversation, sharing at mealtime or sitting outside, everyone benefits from a social visit!