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Recently, I was chatting with a woman who volunteers at a local nursing home. She expressed frustration and spoke of possibly checking out other facilities.
This woman explained that she’s eager to make a difference in the lives of the residents. But whenever she goes to the nursing home to volunteer at her assigned time, the staff rarely have anything for her to do.
This made me feel discouraged. You see, I’ve worked in a few different nursing homes during my career, and I know the needs are great. Moreover, volunteers can help meet so many of these needs—for both the residents and the staff.
I encouraged her not to give up. Rather, I urged her to make an appointment to meet with the volunteer coordinator and share her concerns. Then the two of them can discuss her interests and skills, as well as the needs of the nursing home. Together, I’m certain they can come up with meaningful assignments.
Are any of you in a similar situation? Today I’m sharing a list of 50 things you can do as a nursing home volunteer.
1. Lead an exercise class
2. Wash windows
3. Do manicures
4. Help with gardening
5. Answer the phone at the reception desk
6. Walk the facility dogs
7. Play a musical instrument
8. Help with fundraising
9. Play cards
10. Escort residents to clinic appointments
“The world is hugged by the faithful arms of volunteers.” (Terri Guillemets)
11. Set/style hair
12. Lead a Bible study
13. Help in the dining room during meals
14. Decorate for holidays
15. Mend clothing
16. Distribute mail
17. Help put together jigsaw puzzles
18. Teach residents to use a computer
19. Wash wheelchairs & other equipment
20. Do a comedy routine
“Volunteers don’t get paid, not because they’re worthless, but because they’re priceless.” (Sherry Anderson)
21. Help at the onsite childcare center
22. Escort residents on outings
23. Play board games
24. Be a BINGO caller
25. Bring a pet to visit
26. Do hand massages with lotion
27. Read to residents
28. Help residents write letters
29. Ask a resident to teach you something
30. Set up/clean up for special events
“Volunteers are love in motion!” (author unknown)
31. Visit with residents and listen to their stories
32. Lead special interest groups
33. Transport residents to meals, activities, and rehab sessions
34. Help with crossword puzzles or word searches
35. Shine residents’ shoes
36. Teach a resident to use a Smartphone
37. Lead sing-a-longs
38. Help in the coffee shop or gift shop
39. Become a volunteer ombudsman
40. Decorate bulletin boards
“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they just have the heart.” (Elizabeth Andrew)
41. Help with worship services
42. Assist with craft projects
43. Rearrange funeral flower arrangements into individual bouquets
44. Do clerical tasks (faxing, copying, envelope stuffing)
45. Escort residents outdoors in pleasant weather
46. Lead an indoor walking group
47. Document life stories
48. Bring babies to visit
49. Greet visitors at the front desk
50. Lead a baking/cooking class
What did I miss? What else do you do when you volunteer at the nursing home? Please let us know in the comment section.
Brandi King says
Hi,
My name is Brandi. I am a single woman who lives in Santa Monica. I am an actress and when I’m not working I have lots of time on my hands. I can visit with patients or do whatever is needed is needed around the home. Saturdays are often open in my schedule.
Diane says
Hi Brandi,
That’s wonderful. I’m sure the residents greatly appreciate your being there for them.
Drema Sovine says
how about feeding them, if they need help.
Diane says
Hello Drema,
Thank you for bringing this up! Most nursing homes welcome extra help at mealtimes. However, assisting residents with eating usually requires specialized training and falls under specific federal and state regulations. If volunteers are interested in assisting with meals, I encourage you to talk with your volunteer coordinator.
Diana Wehbe says
Pray with them.
Diane says
Hello Diana,
Yes, that’s an excellent addition to the list. Thanks for commenting!