Program Purpose/Goal
Companion Day Services (CDS) attempts to improve or maintain the quality of life for those who wish to live as independently as possible within their own homes or in other non-institutional community settings. To understand the challenges caregivers face daily, the goal of CDS is to provide a safe and supportive environment for all participants. The individualized and group activities stimulate the mind and spirit, in an effort to bring joy, satisfaction and a sense of purpose to the lives of those who attend CDS. CDS provides family members the support needed in order to allow for work outside the home or enjoy much needed respite time.
Specific Objectives
To provide respite and assist responsible parties as needed through support.
To promote self-esteem, dignity and self-worth by concentrating on abilities and strengths. Participants are shown respect and given recognition for what they can do. Limitations of function, disability and frailty are not the focus of the program but rather recognition and respect for one's abilities, efforts and accomplishments.
To enhance the ability of each participant in order to assist participants in maintaining their current and/or highest level of functioning. This may mean assistance in activities of daily living (ADL) skills necessary for functioning in one's home, maintenance of a participant's functioning through disease progression, and social support to maintain the ability to function in community settings.
To provide an environment in which the participant finds enjoyment and fulfillment. Quality of life is enhanced by providing activities, which fit the interests of each participant and offer new opportunities for continued growth and learning.
To provide protection and supervision of participants. Each participant is provided an environment of comfort and safety, free from the risk of injury from oneself or others. Responsible parties receive the comfort of knowing that professional staff is responsible for the safety and well being of the participant.
To provide educational opportunities for staff, volunteers, children and students through intergenerational activities and opportunities.
Companion Day Services Policy Statement
It is the policy of Companion Day Services to have established acceptance/discharge criteria to ensure the fit between the services we provide and the participant's needs. The acceptance criteria are the standards by which Companion Day Services may accept or decline applicants. A specific acceptance criterion is needed in order to assess those who can benefit from services. The acceptance criteria are also the basis for discharge from the program when the participant no longer meets the "acceptance criteria", or no longer benefits from the services of Companion Day Services.
Procedures
The criteria for acceptance are the standards by which CDS accepts potential individuals and are also the basis for discharge from Companion Day Services.
Screening begins prior to acceptance and is ongoing until discharge to evaluate the benefits and risks of participation and appropriateness for attendance.
The acceptance criteria is a guideline, not a "pass" or "fail" system. Applicant's physical and cognitive needs along with mood and behavior will be assessed to assure everyone's safety at Companion Day Services.
