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Caring for the Elderly
This organisation aims to provide all its residents with the highest standard of care and nursing within a homely environment, and to promote quality of life, the maintenance of independence, and the preservation of dignity. Volunteers work with residents who come from all walks of life and socio-economic backgrounds.
The project offers a half-day option when combined with an English language course.
Overview:
| Location | Cape Town, South Africa |
|---|---|
| Duration | From 2 weeks |
| Dates | All year round |
| Requirements |
|
| Minimum Age: | 18 |
| Your impact | |
| Documents required | Enrolment form, curriculum vitae, letter of motivation, passport copy, proof of medical insurance, police clearance certificate, proof of COVID vaccination |
| Day of arrival | Sunday |
| Day of departure | Saturday |
Highlights
- As a volunteer, you are able to have a real impact on someone’s life.
- Assist in improving the quality of life of the elderly.
- Gain knowledge from stories and experiences of the elderly people.
- Receive personal support from the volunteer coordinator.
- Experience amazing tours and adventures in and around Cape Town.
- Make new friends from all over the world.
- Option to volunteer half-day only and combine the project with an English course in the morning.
Project Information
The project was founded in 1953 by a group of volunteers with a vision: to improve the quality of life of the elderly. Since then it has grown into an organisation that is a leader in the field of care and nursing for the aged. The organisation manages a large number of homes for the elderly, including numerous new upmarket developments. For those in need, full care is provided, while there are also independent living options.
This organisation aims to provide all its residents with the highest standard of care and nursing within a homely environment and to promote quality of life, the maintenance of independence, and the preservation of dignity - by becoming members of a senior centre, residents are encouraged to participate in all aspects of community life.
The Caring for the Elderly offers competitive health care, and in all health care facilities, there is provision for those who need special additional care. Trained health care professionals provide quality care while independence is encouraged.
This organisation offers the elderly a variety of options and services for their retirement. You will work at one of the facilities situated in Rondebosch and Newlands, which are established leafy suburbs about 15 minutes away from the city centre. The facilities boast picturesque and tranquil surroundings, security and excellent in-house services which together create the setting and peace of mind retirees seek when planning their retirement.
Your Role
Monday – Friday, from 08:00 – 16:00.
Please contact us to learn about the half-day option when combining this project with an English language course.
In general, you will assist caregivers in looking after the elderly. This would include keeping the residents busy with activities like art classes, playing games, or even playing a musical instrument (if you have this skill).
It is important to note that this description serves as an example only. The daily tasks and challenges depend on the volunteer and the work that needs to be done. The final job description can therefore vary substantially from the above.
Accommodation
You will live at the Volunteer House. It is a private house in an upmarket residential area in Cape Town. Volunteers are accommodated in twin bedrooms but may upgrade to single rooms upon request. There are 4 bathrooms to share, a communal kitchen to cater yourself, a dining room, a lounge with TV and DVD and a beautiful garden with a swimming pool.
Bedding is provided. Towels will be not provided.
There is a washing machine at the residence for you to use. It works with tokens which can be purchased for R40 per load.
Photos
Testimonials
Juliane from Brazil
"As a volunteer, I could help the elderly and they reciprocated it with smiles and thank yous which really made my day. I could reflect on my life and what I can do differently to contribute to this world.I changed my mindset in some aspects as a person.To give attention and just listen to people about their life stories, these simple acts can really make a difference to them. Thank you ladies and all the coworkers (nurses, caretakers, therapist and managers) of the program!"
Rojin from Iran
"The experience was amazing. Everything was so well organized. The best part about the experience was that I felt that I was being very productive as I was helping people."
Thiago from Brazil
"At the beginning I was a little bit afraid if the elderly would like me or not, but from the first moment with the nurses and residents, they treated me the same as any other Cape Townian does. With kindness and help, then I realised it would be an amazing experience. I was at the Caring for the Elderly project for one month and every day was a different story. So many delightful moments, especially with Bridget who is now my grandmother! I will not forget her and her advise. She was the highlight of my trip. Besides that, I had a great time with the other residents and nurses (Tersia, Pamela, Michelle, Christine and of course sister Gloria). I hope that more volunteers come to this lovely place and make them feel happy. Finally, I’m really thankful to Good Hope Volunteers for this opportunity, Ek is life vie joy, Kaapstad."
Marcus from Brazil
"When I chose to go to the Caring for the Elderly project, everyone kept saying that everyone comes for the animals and children but I have loved this experience! Besides taking care of the elderly for two weeks, what they gave me back was love, attention and sharing their lived experiences. I learnt about their experiences in Apartheid too, it was amazing! I need to come back."
Roberta from Brazil
"Being together with these people in the old age home was incredible. At first I was a bit uncomfortable because like all volunteers I had an idea to work with children but it was the best thing that happened to me in South Africa. I met some lovely people who need affection and attention and who are extremely happy and grateful to have our presence there. We really make a big difference in these people's lives and we make ourselves better than we ever were. I'm going to miss my old ladies dearly. I would like to draw attention to one thing, while volunteering with children is full and popular, we need more volunteers for the elderly. Remember the elderly. They also need attention and care, give them a chance and you will receive the best affection you can imagine. Thank you to Good Hope Volunteers so much for an amazing experience."
Lydia from Brazil
"I really enjoyed my time that I spent at the retirement house. At first I was a bit uncomfortable but I learnt how to interact with old people, 4 weeks later, I know I will miss them. I wish I could have worked with other volunteers but it was also good to volunteer alone. I'm really thankful for this amazing experience and I know I will always remember the month I spent there."
Leonardo from Brazil
"My volunteer work...it was amazing! I arrived in Cape Town on 12/12/2016 and began my experience. From my first day until the last, everything was perfect. I saw a lot of things, I learnt different languages and had an amazing experience. I will recommend this project, this trip for all my life. Thank you Good Hope!"
