Grandparents are the best but aging can be hard and there comes a time when we need to give back to the seniors in our lives and in our communities. My grandmother was my favorite person in the world and even though I was blessed to have her in my life until her 100th birthday, it was hard watching her change from the woman I depended on to the one that depended on me. When she had to go to an assisted living home, I saw just how many seniors were patiently waiting to be visited. I used to bring my kids too and so many faces would light up just to see them. Here are three ways you can volunteer to help seniors this holiday season. This post is brought to you by Ready To Care.
Care Mission: Volunteer To Help Seniors
The holidays are right around the corner and it is such a great time of year to be thankful for what we have and to give and help others because there is no better way to spread holiday cheer. As a mother, I think there are so many reasons to encourage volunteering in our children too. It can make a really fantastic family bonding activity. By 2020 people aged 65 and older will outnumber children under age 5 for the first time ever! That means there are a lot of older people who may need care and they would benefit greatly from having a caring community to support them when they need it.
I know this time of year can be busy but your gift of time can help make this season so much brighter for others. As Elizabeth Andrew said, “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.”
5 Ways You Can Volunteer To Help Seniors
If we each do a little bit, together we can inspire future generations to continue caring for and valuing our senior community members. Together, through everyday acts of kindness, education, and understanding, we can help make the aging experience more positive for seniors. Aging is a hard process for both the seniors and sometimes we forget that not only are they more limited in physical ability but they also just need company. We can run an errand, check in on a neighbor, or provide companionship. It’s easy to show you care and spread a bit of cheer to make a senior smile.
Did you know that, according to Meals on Wheels America, nearly 9 million seniors face the threat of hunger in the United States? There are seniors that could use your help. Whether it’s hunger or another cause close to your heart, these resources may help you find a local volunteer opportunity this season. If you’re looking to volunteer to help seniors, there are various ways you can contribute. Here are some ideas:
1. Meal Delivery Programs
Connect with your local Meals on Wheels. Drop off a warm meal to a senior in need and get more than you expect. Visit mealsonwheelsamerica.org to volunteer.
2. Transportation Assistance
Whether your interest in helping those with Alzheimer’s, helping seniors by giving them a ride somewhere, or spending time with a lonely senior, you can help! Visit www.give65.org to find an organization near you that helps seniors.
3. Contact your local civic or religious organizations
Your local civic or religious organizations are sure to opportunities to get involved. Many operate soup kitchens or food drives this time of year.
4. Check With Local Senior Centers
Contact local senior centers or community centers to see if they need volunteers. They often organize activities, events, or services for seniors. Some seniors may appreciate companionship. You could spend time chatting, reading, or engaging in activities with them. Loneliness can be a significant issue for seniors, so your companionship could make a big difference.
5. Technology Assistance
Help seniors with technology, such as setting up and using smartphones, tablets, or computers. This can enable them to stay connected with friends and family.
Take Action: Join Ready To Care
Want inspiration? Ready To Care will inspire you to help seniors in your area. Sign up to get weekly tips, care missions, and inspiration from others delivered right to your phone.
Join Ready To Care at imreadytocare.com
Follow Ready to Care on Instagram
Conclusion
If you have specific skills or knowledge, consider organizing workshops or classes for seniors. This could include topics like basic computer skills, health and wellness, or hobbies. Before you start, it’s a good idea to contact local organizations or senior centers to understand their specific needs and requirements. Volunteering to help seniors can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience.
You don’t have to have money to give. If you care spare a little time, you can brighten a senior’s day. Ready to Care resonates with me because it speaks to the goodness inside us all and how we can make a difference in each other’s lives. Will you volunteer to help seniors this holiday season?
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Leslie | Supermompicks says
Hello Scarlet, I love this blog post. My husband works at a retirement community and every year for the holidays we adopt a resident in the skilled nursing facility to be a secret Santa for. Last year my kids and I volunteered to pass out the gifts and the residents were so thrilled to see little kids bringing them gifts. It was amazing to give in this way. I am so glad you wrote this piece to bring awareness to your followers.