ALZ Companions Volunteers: What is the program like?

One of the many volunteering opportunities offered at our organization is within the ALZ Companions Respite program. Companion volunteers are trained by Alzheimer’s San Diego and then carefully matched with a family based on personality, location, schedule, and the companionship needs. They spend a few hours per week together, while giving the caregiver some rest in the process. Some of them are paired with families for years, but even those with shorter term pairings share lovely stories about their time working with people living with memory loss and how it has impacted them personally.

Quotes from ALZ Companions Volunteers

[Client] was in a great mood and always so welcoming whenever I come visit. She told me she sees me as one of her daughters and that made me very emotional.

…this warms my heart and makes me happy to know that I am helping someone else! Thank you for these kind words, it means a lot to me…

I’m happy I chose to volunteer, this has been a great experience and I’ve learned a lot while developing my listening and patience.

I love that I’m able to learn so much from my companion and see the joy and excitement in his face when I bring up his favorite topics, it’s personally so rewarding to see. Love the organization!

Quotes From the Families

[Companion] has been such a welcome light in our lives. [Client] is typically introverted and when she sees [Companion], she livens up and greets her like she would a family member she has known for years! I am grateful for [Companion’s] visits, this program and how wonderful this organization has been!

There has been SUCH an improvement in our dad’s behavior with [Companion]. Our dad has been more positive at home and looks forward to his interactions with [Companion]. And overall, we feel incredibly safe putting our father in [Companion’s] hands.

It has given me, the caregiver, a break once a week and has given my husband someone else to engage with. A very positive experience for us both!!

The ALZ Companions program has brought such wonderful volunteer companions to our home. My husband continues to be highly social and verbal, and the companion visits have enriched his mental functioning while providing me with time and space to pursue separate interests.

If you’re interested in being an ALZ Companions volunteer or exploring other positions, visit our volunteer page.

For personalized dementia support or to sign up for the ALZ Companions Respite program, call us at 858.492.4400 to speak with one of our Dementia Care Coaches who are here to help San Diego County residents and/or those caring for someone living in San Diego County (Spanish speakers available). Also check out our free education classes, social activities, caregiver support groups, & more.

By Braulio Ambriz

Posted on February 12th, 2026