FAQs
FAQs
FAQs
Q: WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR THE PROGRAM? A: Nav-CARE was designed to meet the needs of persons with declining health who are living at home or in a home like setting such as assisted living or long-term care. They may be living independently or with family. The most important eligibility criterion for the program is that the person feels they need assistance and that they would benefit from having regular visits from a volunteer.
Q: WHAT IS THE LONGTERM VISION OF NAV-CARE? A: Our goal is to make Nav-CARE available in communities across Canada at no cost for people accessing Nav-CARE. We believe that Nav-CARE has the potential to improve the quality of life of persons living with declining health while helping volunteers to make a meaningful and compassionate contribution to their community.
Q: HOW HAS THE PROGRAM BEEN EVALUATED? A: Through a number of studies, we have found that people who have a Nav-CARE volunteer were highly satisfied with the program and felt it was important. They reported an increase in their knowledge of the resources in their community and an increase in their confidence in making health care decisions. Volunteers have also reported benefiting from the program themselves. Through these many studies we have designed a program that is evidence-based. The results of these studies are freely available online and can be accessed through the Nav-CARE website.
Q: WHAT DO VOLUNTEER NAVIGATORS LEARN? A: Volunteers are educated according to seven main competences: Addressing quality of life; advocating for people living with declining health; facilitating community connections; supporting access to resources and promoting active engagement. Volunteers also learn important skills on virtual navigation.
Q: HOW IS THE ROLE OF THE VOLUNTEER NAVIGATOR DIFFERENT FROM HEALTHCARE NAVIGATORS? A: Volunteer navigators perform a different role than healthcare navigators. Within the boundaries of being a volunteer and not a health care professional, they are concerned primarily with improving quality of life. They focus on those practical day-to-day necessities that ‘make life more livable.’ They have the time and resources to sit down with persons, enjoy a cup of tea, and focus on what matters most to them.
Q: HOW DOES THIS PROGRAM FIT WITHIN THE HEALTHCARE SYSTEM? A: Healthcare systems play an important role for persons living with declining health. However, globally the most innovative programs also acknowledge the importance of communities and neighbours to supporting those living with declining health. This is often referred to as a compassionate community approach to care. We know that even though healthcare systems are essential, the vast majority of care is provided by friends and family. Specially trained volunteers can play an important role in helping to facilitate communities to care better for their own.
Q: WHO DO I CONTACT IF I AM INTERESTED IN THE NAV-CARE PROGRAM? A: Please contact nav.care@ubc.ca or connect with us through our website www.nav-care.ca.