Hospice student volunteers gain insight into dementia

Ahwatukee Foothills News
August 23, 2024
by Lin Sue Flood

Once a week, graduate nursing student Merle Tamondong pauses her busy college life to visit Micheline Schulte. They color together, play Micheline’s favorite songs and chat in French, her native language.

“When I come here, the only time I’m on my phone is when I’m playing some music, which Micheline likes when we are coloring,” Merle said. “I feel very lucky.”

Merle is part of Hospice of the Valley’s College Partners Program, an innovative collaboration with Maricopa Community Colleges, Arizona State University and other schools to provide socialization to people living with dementia and a much-needed break to family caregivers.

Micheline, 81, said she treasures Merle’s visits, explaining, “She is a kind person, she’s there for you, it’s a pleasure knowing and being with her.”

Hospice of the Valley’s dementia and volunteer departments spearheaded this intergenerational program to help inspire careers in dementia care. Incentives include scholarship opportunities, monthly education and letters of recommendation.

To date, 106 students have been trained and paired with 123 patients since College Partners launched in 2021 with a grant from Community Care Corps. Now, the program is funded by Hospice of the Valley and community donations.

“Most students may be drawn to the program because they are pursuing some type of path in healthcare, but it’s their actual visits that literally bring smiles to the patients they support,” Hospice of the Valley volunteer coordinator Holly Cottor said. “Students are truly dedicated to making an impact, whether cooking or baking with their patient, helping tidy up the home, engaging in conversations or sharing a cup of coffee.”

Merle joined College Partners through Grand Canyon University. “Going into nursing, I feel like developing patience and empathy is paramount — for myself as well as the people I interact with,” she said. “I wish I had known more about this program when I was taking care of my own parents.”

Micheline’s sister, Janine Roumain, said Merle’s calming presence has been hugely beneficial: “She represents someone who doesn’t judge Micheline, so it’s been really wonderful. It makes me happy that my sister has someone she can connect with.”

Information: Holly Cottor at hcottor@hov.org or 602-515-6207 or hov.org/volunteer.