What is HELP?

The HELP Program at CPMC's Pacific Campus, seeks to decrease confusion and subsequent loss of independence in older patients in an acute care setting. We are actively recruiting volunteers to participate in the expansion of the HELP program.

We are seeking volunteers who:

• Have an interest in caring for older adult patients.
• Are responsible, mature, caring and respectful of older adults.
• Can help re-orient patients to their settings with social visits/conversation.
• Will provide cognitive stimulation to patients’ based on specialized training.
• Will feed patients under supervision.
• Will assist patients with their dietary needs.
• Can guide range-of motion exercises and encourage appropriate ambulation.

Upcoming Training Sessions

The Hospital Elder Life Program (HELP) training sessions are held several times a year. This training is mandatory if want to be a HELP volunteer.

To sign up for this training or another future training please reach out to the contacts below.

HELP Volunteer Requirements

• Make at least a 1 year commitment to the program.
• Commit to a 4-hour weekly shift for at least 1 year.
• Undergo specialized training, including 8 hours of classroom instruction and 16 hours of precepted training.
• Successfully complete competency-based checklists.
• Proficiency in English is required and being bilingual is an asset.

HELP Volunteer Contact

For more information on the HELP program and how you can participate, please contact:

Shannon Cotter
Elder Life Program Specialist
shannon.cotter@sutterhealth.org