Pioneer Valley Memory Care Initiative (PVMCI) Cooley Dickinson Hospital
30 Locust Street
Northampton, MA 01060
(413) 582-2357
https://www.cooleydickinson.org/programs-services/pioneer-valley-memory-care-initiative/
About your organization
The Pioneer Valley Memory Care Initiative is a grant funded program at MGB Cooley Dickinson Geriatrics & Cooley Dickinson VNA & Hospice that supports older adults living with memory loss and their primary caregivers. PVMCI works to improve the quality of life for those living with dementia and their care partners to age in their homes as long as desired and remain connected to their communities. Volunteers from local Neighborhood Organizations are integral to this program, providing and sustaining social and community connections for those living with memory loss and their caregivers.
About the population you serve
PVMCI serves adults with a dementia diagnosis and their caregivers who live in Hampshire County.
Location of the internship site(s)
Students will be meeting families mainly in their homes. We may also have several other opportunities to volunteer at our Monthly Memory Cafe at the Northampton Senior Center or assist the program with administrative tasks.
General description of what an intern might do
Intern volunteers who are paired for social visits will spend time with the person with dementia engaging in various activities that the volunteer and person enjoy. This may include walks, games, reading, singing, and other enjoyable pastimes.
Intern volunteers at our Memory Cafe will help with set up, program activities, and clean up afterwards.
Intern volunteers assisting with administrative help may assist with data entry, gathering and organizing area resources, assisting with mailings and emails, etc.
Types of professionals students will work with or observe
The students will be connected to a Memory Care Specialist (MCS) in our program. The MCS will provide background on the family situation, suggestions for visits and support as needed. MCS staff hold various licensures including RN, OT, Mental Health Counselor, and Art Therapist. In general, the student volunteer will be visiting families on their own after the initial introduction visit with the MCS. The student volunteer may choose to observe the MCS at visits with the family/caregiver if they would like to, however, this is not required.
Agency Contact
Karen Romanowski
kromanowski@mgb.org
(413) 582-2357