Preparation for Volunteering Phone Calls with Older Adults: A Guide

As a volunteer from an older-person charity, your goal is to combat social isolation and build meaningful connections with older adults. Whether you are 81 or younger, preparation is key to ensuring a successful and beneficial interaction. Here are some guidelines to help you prepare for these important phone calls.

Approach with Kindness and Respect

When initiating contact with an older adult, it's essential to approach the conversation with a pure heart and no judgments. Show genuine interest and care by asking simple yet meaningful questions. For example:

How are you today? Do you have any plans for the day ahead? What are you having for dinner? What are your interests?

These questions provide a light and friendly way to engage with your caller. Over time, you can delve into more personal topics, but it's important to establish a friendly rapport first.

Know the Importance of Training and Vetting

Legitimate charity organizations understand the importance of proper training and vetting for their volunteers. Ensure that you have undergone the necessary training to honor the trust and dedication required for your role. If you haven't, it may be a sign that the organization does not take these responsibilities seriously.

Proper training includes:

Communication skills An understanding of cultural sensitivity Methods for addressing loneliness and isolation Techniques for maintaining conversation flow

Additionally, reputable organizations will have a vetting process to ensure that volunteers are suitable for the role. This can include background checks, references, and personal interviews.

Understanding the Older Person's Perspective

From the point of view of an older adult, a phone call from a stranger can be a welcome opportunity to share and engage. Many older individuals feel isolated and rarely receive personal attention. Here are some insights to consider:

They value simple, friendly conversations. They respond well to genuine care and interest. They appreciate being asked about their interests and activities. They may feel uncomfortable discussing personal finances. They need validation and someone who listens without judgment.

It's crucial to strike a balance between showing interest in their life and not intruding too much. For example, avoid giving unsolicited advice about diet or shopping. Instead, ask about their interests and let the conversation flow naturally.

Building Long-Term Relationships

While the initial calls are important, building a long-term relationship is where real impact can be made. Over time, you can:

Learn more about your caller and their life experiences. Share your own stories and photos. Discuss common interests and hobbies. Stay in touch regularly to maintain a support network.

Remember, it's not all about them. While it's essential to show interest in their life, it's equally important to share your own experiences. This can help create a more balanced and comfortable conversation.

Conclusion

Compassion and respect form the foundation of successful interactions with older adults. By preparing with the right mindset and approach, you can make a significant difference in someone's life. legitimate charities invest time in training and vetting their volunteers, ensuring a positive and impactful experience for both the volunteer and the person being contacted. By following these guidelines, you can build lasting and meaningful connections that combat social isolation and bring joy to the lives of older adults.