Fern, 98, finds a way to ‘visit’ and touch hearts

Virtual Call a Friend Volunteer Program connects Albertans

Story by Yolanda Genu, Photo by Gwen Smith

When volunteer programs were postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic — and volunteers could no longer visit in person — the Volunteer Resources team quickly explored creative ways to reach out to Home Care clients, residents and patients in health facilities across Central Zone.

One of the ideas they came up with is the Virtual Call a Friend Volunteer Program. Since its launch at the end of April, volunteers have already virtually visited 68 clients from across the zone — and the program is still growing.

“The program allows volunteers to connect with clients and offer virtual support. Since the beginning of the program, clients have had positive experiences,” says Tina Richards, Volunteer Resources co-ordinator in Olds.

“Clients are happy to receive the calls, and both the clients and volunteers found that they have a lot in common — they know each other’s family or family histories. And clients have said that the visits have lessened their anxiety and allowed them to connect with others.”

Fern Olson, one of the first volunteers to offer her support to the new program, was matched with two Home Care clients who expressed interest in receiving weekly phone calls. During the call, clients talk about their hobbies and other things that matter to them.

Olson, 98, is a dedicated soul, advocate and a well-known community member who has volunteered for 23 years at the Olds Hospital and Care Centre.

Prior to COVID-19, she helped once a week with Recreation Therapy department programs such as mealtime assistance, social tea, portering residents and other activities in long-term care.

While she misses spending time with residents in person, she knows it’s important to keep herself and others safe and healthy during these uncertain times.

“I quite enjoy my weekly phone-call visits. And realizing how much I already know about the clients makes me feel like we’re already friends,” says Olson.

Olson is one of the many volunteers in the Central Zone now participating in the program. Volunteers are matched with clients looking to connect with someone, and are provided with a bit of background about them before the initial call.

Each volunteer is also provided with a tip sheet to help them respond to challenging questions or concerns — and to help them identify when a client may be in distress. Volunteers keep in contact with Home Care Support workers to ensure clients receive follow-up support if they need it.

For their part, clients echo Richards’ sentiment — that having regular phone calls helps them feel connected in more ways than one.

“I love these calls from Fern. I get excited when it’s time for the call,” says Joan Taylor, a client participating in the program. “Growing up, she was my dad’s best friend. He’s since passed away — and her calls make me feel closer to my dad now.

“Also, Fern knows that I had knee-replacement surgery in March — and she always reminds me to do my exercises.”