Alzheimer’s Otago provides post-diagnostic support for those who experience this life-limiting condition. Bright Minds aims to help participants in the programme enjoy a richer quality of life by re-connecting with their community. The Bright Minds Programme visits community venues like the Dunedin Art Gallery, Botanical Gardens, Museums and the Dunedin Library. Excursions to other venues may also be arranged, for example, Glenfalloch Gardens, St Kilda Mini-Golf, Larnach Castle and Port Chalmers.
The programme is designed to assist those with mild to moderate dementia to build confidence and independence and maintain quality of life, and provide much needed respite time for care partners.
As a BM Assistant you will:
• Support the BM Activities Co-ordinator to provide a safe, fun and enjoyable session
• Oversee and assist participants in a group setting with basic activities and tasks (6 in a group)
• Help oversee the safely of participants in an outdoor setting. Some participants may have mobility limitations, for example
• Engage in friendly, positive, casual conversation about participants’ interests or current events, for example
• Helping with set-up and pack-down
Training Provided
• Relevant training will be provided by certified Alzheimer’s Otago staff
Benefits for Volunteers
• Helping vulnerable members of society live a richer fuller life
• Help build confidence and independence in community settings
• Learning about dementia and how to better assist those with dementia
• Morning tea provided
• You will be caring, kind, understanding and patient
• Need to be able to assist participants with light activities (no personal care)
• Willingness to give things a go
• Experience with those living with dementia or older persons an advantage
• Experience delivering group activities an advantage but not essential
• Need own transport to venues
• Complete relevant induction training provided
• Ideally three-month minimum commitment
A Police background check is required for this role.
• 2 hours per week
• Thursday 10am – 12pm
• Starting April 3rd
The first step is to express your interest by filling out the form below. We will then put you in touch directly with the organisation for more information on the role and how to proceed.
Ref: 2776
Social Support