Mount Sinai has long been recognized for its commitment to exceptional patient care, and a cornerstone of this dedication is the Care and Respect for Elders in Emergencies (CARE) program. This impactful volunteer initiative provides crucial support to older patients within the emergency department, ensuring they receive not only expert medical attention but also compassionate personal care. The CARE program exemplifies Mount Sinai’s holistic approach to healthcare, recognizing the importance of emotional and social well-being alongside medical treatment, especially for vulnerable elderly patients.
What is the Mount Sinai Care Program?
The Care Program at Mount Sinai encompasses several volunteer initiatives designed to enhance patient experience across different hospital settings. The flagship program, Care and Respect for Elders in Emergencies (CARE), focuses on providing comfort and assistance to geriatric patients in the fast-paced environment of the Emergency Department. Volunteers engage with elderly patients to alleviate anxiety, prevent delirium onset, and offer a reassuring presence. Activities range from simple conversations and games to providing practical aids like reading glasses and hearing amplifiers.
Expanding on this foundation, Care and Respect for Everyone extends similar bedside support to adult patients of all ages admitted to inpatient units. While maintaining a focus on geri-friendly interventions, this program ensures that all adult patients benefit from the comforting presence of volunteers in a quieter, more controlled inpatient setting.
For patients needing physical rehabilitation, CARE II: Up and About! is designed to aid inpatient mobilization, contributing to improved health outcomes and faster recovery. While currently on temporary hold, the anticipated reopening of CARE II in early 2024 underscores Mount Sinai’s ongoing commitment to comprehensive patient support through volunteer initiatives.
Alt: Compassionate Mount Sinai care program volunteers provide bedside support and engage in conversation with an elderly patient in a bright hospital room, enhancing patient comfort and well-being.
Your Opportunity to Volunteer with the Mount Sinai Care Program
Volunteering with the Mount Sinai Care Program offers a unique and rewarding opportunity to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives. Ideal for individuals who thrive in dynamic environments and possess a genuine passion for patient interaction, the CARE program seeks dedicated volunteers who can commit to enhancing patient care through direct support and engagement.
To be eligible for this impactful volunteer role, applicants must be at least 18 years of age and able to dedicate a minimum of 150 hours over a 6-9 month period, equating to approximately four hours per week. Current volunteer shifts are conveniently scheduled on weekdays, Monday through Friday, with options available during 9am-1pm, 1pm-5pm, and 5pm-9pm time slots.
Apply to the Mount Sinai Care Program
If you are looking for a meaningful volunteer experience and meet the outlined requirements, Mount Sinai encourages you to apply to the CARE Program. Applications are accepted during specific cycles throughout the year, aligning with Spring, Summer, and Fall cohorts in 2025.
| 2025 CARE Application Cycle |
|---|
| Accepting Applications |
| September 9th – October 28th |
| January 17th – February 28th |
| June 2nd – July 7th |
For any inquiries or further information about the Care Program Mount Sinai, please do not hesitate to reach out via email at [email protected]. Your dedication can bring comfort and support to patients in need at Mount Sinai.
