KETV: Program Partners Volunteers with Older Patients

Doris Lien, 80, spends her days in and out of the hospital. Because Lien suffers from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, better known as COPD, she needs help getting through everyday tasks, such as walking and breathing.

That's where Joy Mahoney comes in.

Mahoney is a volunteer with HELP, the Hospital Elder Life Program, at Methodist Health. She's there once a week, and what looks like small talk actually serves a greater purpose.

KETV reporter Jobeth Devera spent time with Doris and Joy during their recent visit together at Methodist Hospital.