The NODAC Program Volunteer - No One Dies Alone Companion

About this role

Can you imagine dying alone? It is the reality of many older Australians who are faced with a lonely death. This could be because they don’t have family or friends nearby, relationships have broken down, or other commitments make it difficult for someone to be with them 24 hours a day. In 2020, not-for-profit aged care provider Amana Living introduced the No One Dies Alone Companion (NODAC) Program. It was inspired by the No One Dies Alone program founded at Sacred Heart Medical Centre in America. Amana Living needs more volunteers who want to support a person in their final moments by providing vital reassurance and human connection. .

Types of activities you could be involved with

The program involves volunteers providing companionship to an Amana Living resident at the end of their life. This is different for every resident, but it can include holding a conversation, reading to them, playing music, or giving comfort simply by being there. NODAC volunteers provide support in three-hour blocks over a 24-hour period. This role complements the high-quality clinical and personal care delivered by Amana Living staff.

Amana Living also welcomes people who would like to be a volunteer for other activities such as being a companion to residents who do not have visitors or family members able to support them alongside your NODAC volunteering. For one-on-one visits you can be involved in activities like chatting together, board games, reading magazines, newspapers, reading and or discussing books, simple art and craft, listening to music, watching movies and if you have a hidden talent like chess, knitting or gardening please let us know. Smiling and laughing are contagious, make a difference in someone's life today.

If you would like to assist in group activities, these are scheduled at specific times and days and can include bingo, bus trips, pamper sessions, art and craft, cooking, quizzes, walking groups and so much more.

Benefits of Volunteering

Volunteering can provide a wide range of benefits including ·      Improved mental and physical health ·      Reduce stress, anxiety, and depression  ·      Fosters a sense of purpose ·      Boost self-confidence ·      Offers opportunities to develop new skills and expand social networks

Who we are looking for

To become a NODAC volunteer, you need to have empathy, good communication skills, resilience, a willingness to commit to training, be kind and compassionate, have your own mobile phone and transport. Ideally you will also need to be able to commit to three-hour shifts regularly. If you become a volunteer, you can select the care centre you visit and the time you have available. You’ll be fully supported by Amana Living’s NODAC Coordinator. Amana Living needs NODAC volunteers through metro WA including Mandurah centre.

“It is such a privilege to be a volunteer; the role is worthwhile, and you get so much in return…it’s about spending time with a person, talking to them, and enriching their life.”- Renee, volunteer

How it works

The first step is to apply online at the Amana Living website under Volunteer, you will be required to create a profile and fill in an application directly through Amana Living (separate to the expression of interest) and we are here to support you through the process. We have a meeting with you about the NODAC role, locations, your background and compliance required. All volunteers receive additional specific training for this role, support and access to current information on volunteering and aged care.

At Amana Living, volunteers become part of the team, making a real difference and enjoying the positive reward of the Amana Living Community. Our volunteers also have opportunities to connect with other like-minded individuals at regular social events during the year.

Who we are

Amana Living is one of Western Australia’s largest not-for-profit providers of aged care and retirement living services. We offer a comprehensive range of support, including retirement communities, residential aged care, in-home care, social clubs, and dementia-specific programs.  Our vision is a community where every older person is honoured and valued.  Our mission is to enable older people to maintain their individuality, providing what is needed to support a fulfilling life.     Part of the Anglican community, we are committed to shaping a progressive and sustainable future for aged care.

Locations

Northern suburbs locations: Kinross, Duncraig, Karrinyup, Osborne Park Southern suburbs locations: Salter Point - (near South Perth/ Como), Bull Creek, Camillo, Coolbellup. Eastern suburbs locations: Bayswater, Lesmurdie Regional locations: Mandurah