Training volunteers for the elderly in Israel

Abstract

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a comprehensive training program for volunteers for the elderly in Israel, which has been operated under the National Insurance Institute of the State of Israel.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper considers the need and values of training elderly volunteers to support the elderly in the community. The methodology of training is presented, starting with the first program of a new volunteer and continue with an advanced consultant course. The methodology of maintaining and continuous improvement of the training programs are also discussed.

Findings

Each year, about 500 volunteers participate in a 64 hours (four weekly hours for 16 weeks) new volunteer course, and about 50 volunteers participate in the consultant course. In addition, all active volunteers (about 4,000) participate in regular training groups, every alternate week for two hours.

Originality/value

The paper introduces a unique training methodology and training programs for elderly volunteers to support the elderly in the community. A continuous improvement methodology is discussed to ensure training effectiveness.

Citation

Vitner, G., Shalom, V. and Yodfat, A. (2008), "Training volunteers for the elderly in Israel", Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 40 No. 4, pp. 216-225. https://doi.org/10.1108/00197850810876271