Community centers[2] X Research source Departments for the Aging[3] X Research source Religious groups
The Red Cross Salvation Army[5] X Research source AARP Foundation[6] X Research source Elder Helpers[7] X Research source Volunteers of America[8] X Research source
Recognize the difference between assisted living and nursing communities. Assisted living communities offer help with a limited number of activities of daily living. This may include dressing, bathing, eating or using the restroom. Nursing care facilities provide round-the-clock medical attention. [10] X Research source Locate a senior living community in your area at http://www. seniorliving. org/.
Written or electronic application Interview Background check Fingerprinting
Go to the person’s home and do activities you both enjoy. You could watch a movie or TV show, do crossword puzzles, play board games, or even just sit and talk. Take the person to a café, the movies, or another place if they are able. This helps get the person out of their house while spending some quality time with you. Even a walk around the neighborhood is an enjoyable way to volunteer your time.
Ask the person what types of food they like. Cook them healthy alternatives to ensure they get proper nutrition. [16] X Trustworthy Source FamilyDoctor. org Family-focused medical advice site run by the American Academy of Family Doctors Go to source Bring healthy snacks and desserts for the person to enjoy. Consider cooking at the person’s house and staying to enjoy a meal together. This provides the person some company and vital nutrition.
Cleaning Fixing little things Tending to the garden and raking leaves Shoveling the driveway in winter
Schedule a set time every week to drive a senior or seniors to places they need. Consider taking the person out for lunch for some extra quality time. Offer to run errands for the person if they are unable to leave the house or a senior living community. They may need prescriptions, groceries, or just want a meal from a local restaurant.
Ask for donations of gift cards for music if your donors do not have mp3 players they can spare. Invite local business to make donations or sponsor the event. This may invite further interest in the event or get your program some much-needed donations.
Ask a local fitness center or school to host your event. This gives you a chance to offer different types of activities. Set up fun things persons of any activity level can enjoy. This may include obstacle courses, games such as cornhole, a pool party, and a selection of snacks that allow people to mingle. Enlist the help of local businesses in donating services, products, or even prizes.
Ask a local facility, such as a library, or even senior center if you can use their equipment to teach the elderly how to use a computer. You could even volunteer to use your own laptop to work with individuals. Consider enlisting the help of a computer specialist (if you’re not already one) to instruct senior on things such as connecting with people, reading books or watching favorite shows, as well as how to avoid scams that target seniors.
Ask for friends, family, or other interested people to volunteer to decorate and throw the party. Businesses are often willing to donate resources such as food, party supplies, and even presents if you mention their name. Remember that not every person holds religious beliefs. Keep the party cheerful and festive without putting emphasis on religious, political, or other beliefs.
