Volunteering with the Elderly?

Question

I would like to volunteer with the elderly, doing such things as keeping them company, helping with chores/cooking, listening to what they have to say, and helping them partake in meaningful activities. Any suggestions for ways I can do this without a college degree (I am 18)?

Answer 1

I worked in nursing homes for many years, and I can tell you that they would be thrilled to have you as a volunteer! There is always a need for someone to visit with the residents, reading to them, playing chess or checkers, just talking with them. They have lived such interesting lives, and it can be fascinating to hear about them.

You don't need a college degree, just a caring personality and a few hours a week. Go to local nursing homes and ask to speak with their volunteer coordinator. If they don't have one, you can talk to their Social Services director or the Activities director. You could also go to your local United Way agency and ask about programs for the elderly and shut-ins. Another option for finding programs is to go to http://www.volunteermatch.org

This web page gives some examples of what you can do and what would be expected of you in return. I wish you well, and thank God for your caring.

Answer 2

You do not need a college degree to work with the elderly.
If you want a paying job doing this type of thing, check into becoming a Home Health Aide - call your various home care agencies to see if any will train you on the job.

If you just want to volunteer, call your local United Way and ask if they know of an agency that could use your services.
Another volunteer option might be Hospice if you can handle visiting and spending time with someone who is terminally ill. If Hospice interests you google "hospice" and put in your city and state to find out Hospice agencies in your area.

Answer 3

Being a hospice volunteer is a great suggestion. Also, simply call up your local nursing home, tell them you are interested in volunteering and ask how you can help and when you could come by. I guarantee they will be thrilled to have you. You will feel good about what you are doing and you will be enriching the lives of others. It's win/win all around. Bravo to you friend. If only more young people were like you. one of my volunteer jobs is providing flowers to hospice patients (Friends with Flowers, you can read about it on-line, or pass that along to others who may be interested). I can tell you from experience, it is a blessing for you as well as the people you would be helping. Best of luck to you my friend.

Answer 4

You don't need a college education to volunteer. I volunteered for many years when I was younger. The best place to inquire is a convalescent hospital, so many of the people residing there are just left and forgotten by their families. It's tragic and they appreciate someone caring enough about them to spend a little time, even if it's just to play cards, listen to their stories or wheel them around outside to get some air.

Answer 5

Well: according to what you'd must know about certain things
must be needed also join a "Organization that helps with
each 1 Community while it's being Builded & Supported
By local Sponsor Volunteer groups where they have an
Foundation for Veteran's Retirement Home "

Answer 6

If you're in America, try Faith in Action. There are programs across the country. Go to www.faithinaction.org. If not, try going through a local church or house of worship, they'll know who does that near you. Good for you!

Answer 7

Many nursing homes would be happy - just call and ask - also try hospitals.

God bless.

Answer 8

contact locAL nursing homes or hospital
i did it for a number of years