You may be hesitating to visit a retirement home to volunteer but it could be your chance to do good and gain life experiences from the elderly. It can give you a sense of purpose in life and boost your communication skills too.
If you have a specific skill or would just like to help then these nursing homes are always there to welcome you for volunteering. You can even do some simple chores like reading books or housekeeping.
Housekeeping Services
If you are not sure what kind of services to offer to the elderly, the most basic option is to tidy up their bedrooms and lounge area. Even though the rooms are cleaned up regularly there is still much more you can do.
If you are visiting as a group, some of you can clean the common areas while others can help in the kitchen. You can dust the furniture, fold clothes, sweep and mop the floors too.
Perform your Art
If you are an artist or an entertainer, showcase your talent in the best way at a retirement home. As most elders live a pretty boring and monotonous life, they crave excitement and change. The normal routine can become intolerable at times.
You can sing, dance, or set up a magic show to give them something to look forward to and bring out their excitement. For this, you can use banquet chairs in the hall room and set up tables for refreshments.
Prepare Elders for Family Visits
Most elders have family that visits them occasionally. They want to look their best and get ready for the family visits. You can help them out pick the best outfit and have their hair groomed.
Assist them with these tasks to boost their confidence and help them feel empowered before the visit. It will make their time with kids and grandkids more enjoyable.
Set up a Medical Camp for Residents
If you are related to the medical field or someone you know can provide basic healthcare, then you should help with medical duties when volunteering. With the help of a medical team, you could carry out basic checkups and get some tests done like blood sugar.
Make sure that new and clean supplies are used with good quality medical packaging. You can even prepare a lecture to educate elders on how they can adopt good eating habits and keep themselves fit at their age.
Socialize with the Residents
The most impactful way to volunteer at a retirement home is to take time and give your full attention to the residents. While the retirement homes have enough helping hands, medical staff often don’t have enough time to socialize.
Have a wholesome conversation with an elder and listen to their stories. Just like others, they also crave attention. It means a lot for them if someone simply spends time and socializes with them.
Help Renovate the Space
Many retirement homes have the bare minimum like a bed, lamp, a cupboard in the bedroom, and just enough sitting space in the lounge area. You can help liven up the space with creative renovations.
Paint the walls with the help of other volunteers. Add beautiful art pieces or mats to make the space comfortable and lively. Renovating the area can give the elderly a change in their environment to freshen their mood.
