Volunteers for Helping the Elderly and Disabled

Volunteers who visit nursing homes and other facilities for the care of the elderly and disabled often make the difference between a Spartan existence for the residents and one that is full of stimulation and personal attention for the residents.

Some volunteers provide much needed relief for some of the professional care-givers. Others provide entertainment such as music, art, crafts, reading and many other diversions. Some simply spend time with the residents and listen to their concerns.

We believe that one of the most common differences between sterile nursing homes and those that provide a warm and caring environment is the extent to which the facility and professional caregivers encourage involvement by community volunteers.

But the volunteers also need to be encouraged. If the administrators or the professional care-givers are hostile or even just non supportive to the volunteers, it's difficult for the volunteers to feel their efforts are worthwhile or even appreciated.

We welcome information and stories about how volunteers have made a positive contribution to the well being of the residents of nursing homes and other elder care or convalescent facilities.

Gregg Gimlin

President

Contact: editor [at]  positivelights.org

Legal Counsel for the Elderly: Volunteer Lawyers Project

Coastline Elderly Services Volunteer Program

Palm Desert, California Desert Samaritans

Volunteers of America - Programs for the Elderly

DOROT Volunteers for the Elderly

Volunteer Guardians for the Elderly (Chattanooga, TN)

      National Council of Social Service - Volunteer Circle

      National Volunteer and Philanthropy Centre

      Retired & Senior Volunteer Programme