My Volunteer Experience at a Nursing Home :: Community Service, Service Learning

Up until a few years ago I never thought that one of my grandparents would be in a nursing home. I had always been lucky to build them healthy. However, this changed about a year ago when my grandfather had a mini-stroke, which caused him to require extra safekeeping my grandmother could not provide. observation my family deal with my grandfather made me aware of the care and services the elderly need and has made me realize how important it is to volunteer at a topical anesthetic nursing home.My grandfathers stroke affected his legs and his memory, which made it difficult for him to walk. My grandfather first used a cane, but his legs became too weak, so he tried a walker, but this lasted only a month. Not only could he not walk or take care of himself, but in like manner he began to bank check up at night and fall out of bed.My family started looking into nursing homes. It took us weeks before finally deciding. Unfortunately he will have to chit there until he improves, both mentally and physically.Since summer I have volunteered at his nursing home because I saw how lonely some of the residents were. I volunteered two days a week during the summer, which I have continued. I have learned many things about nursing homes and the factors to consider when choosing one, including the residents quality of life, the care received, the environment surrounding them, and the nursing homes payment policy.I have been working with the recreation director, who plans activities for the residents. I have painted the womens nails and read them letters from their children. Also, I have helped with special days like Ice Cream Day, Summer Picnic Day, and Clown Around Day. For each we create special word scrambles. I also have taken patients for walks. We also have birthday parties and exercise days.Through my volunteering I have made a new friend - Irene. She has family, but they remain faraway and cannot come to visit often. Our friendship grew through the summer. She gr ew up in Shelton and lived in Milford before she came to the home. She has two sons who seldom visit. Her grandchildren, however, do visit every weekend.