Nursing homes like ours thrives with educated, caring staff and enthusiastic volunteers. The simple act of visiting with a resident, holding their hand or offering a listening ear may seem like a small thing, but is actually quite powerful because that simple act of caring brings them immeasurable comfort, joy and encouragement.
“Experience Improved Health and Well-being: Many people who volunteer say that helping others gives them a good feeling inside, something that researchers call a “helpers high”. There seems to be an actual physical sensation that occurs when people help others that makes them experience greater energy and strength, less depression and increased feelings of self-worth, reports Psychology Today. Another survey of a large group of older adults showed that while those who received social support did not experience a marked improvement in health, those who gave support to others had lower mortality rates. That means that caregivers actually benefit the most when they help others.”
A study conducted by the Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center showed that there was a link between higher levels of social connections and participation in social activities with better cognitive function.”
“In addition, volunteering not only provides us with the opportunity to get involved in a cause that we are passionate about, but also provides the chance to look beyond our own circumstances and appreciate what others are experiencing. The difference that you’ll make in someone else’s life will make an even bigger difference in yours.” – Rita Altman, R.N. Source
10 Reasons to Volunteer at a Nursing Home
- A little goes a long way: if you can push a wheelchair safely from one location to another, or sew on a button, you can be a hero.
- For those considering a new career, it’s a great way to see if you’re interested in working with older adults. Based on US demographics, we’ll be needing a lot of folks who enjoy working with “people of age.”
- Feeling lonely? A nursing home is like a small town. It won’t be long before everyone is happy to see you and greets you by name.
- It puts your problems into perspective.
- You can benefit from the experiences of others. Learning about life from those who have lived for a while is an invaluable gift.
- You’ll fall in love with a new oldster every week.
- Death won’t seem so scary after a while, but rather a natural and expected passage.
- You’ll hear living history every day, if you take the time to listen.
- Your time commitment can vary from daily to once a year and everything in between, making it an incredibly flexible way to give back to the world.
- As you’re referring to the “nice-looking 86-year old lady” and the “handsome new guy on the second floor,” you’ll realize you don’t look so bad either.
