Enrich Seniors by Helping Them Give Back

By Lisa Ost-Beikmann, Education Outreach Trustee for the National Association of Activity Professionals (NAAP) and Donna Calvo, also an NAAP member and Recreational Coordinator at Selkirk Place, a long term residential care community in Victoria, British Columbia. 

CaregiverStress.com® newsletter talked with these two North American activity professionals about the challenges seniors can face in staying active and the importance of volunteerism and giving back. To learn more about “give-back” activity resource sheets, which provide seniors, caregivers and care community professionals ideas to keep older adults giving back, go to SalutetoSeniorService.com.

Q. Do you think it’s still important for seniors to give
back to society or their broader community and,
if so, why?

A. Lisa Ost-Beikmann: Absolutely! You know the
saying, “Everybody needs to be needed.” They
need to feel they have a lot to give back. When I
worked in a care community, I allowed both men
and women to peel potatoes. Some organized
silverware, set tables and folded laundry. I kept
them as involved as I could doing what they were
used to doing at home so they felt they were still
part of a home setting. People will deteriorate
physically, mentally and emotionally if they don’t
feel there’s a need for them.

Q. What challenges do you think seniors in care
communities can face in staying active?

A. Donna Calvo: Communities don’t always know
how to engage seniors living in care communities
or those who are isolated and frail at home, and
get them out doing what they’ve always enjoyed.
It’s important to realize that these older adults have
a wealth of experience to share. They may need
help, but they can still be at functions greeting, for
instance, even if they need to sit. It’s important
to their self-esteem and self-respect, and helps
prevent isolation, which can lead to depression.

Q. Do you think more seniors would engage in
volunteerism if they had help?

A. Lisa Ost-Beikmann: Yes. We need to encourage
seniors and make them feel confident about their
ability to give back. Simply providing transportation
to that older loved one or helping him or her write
letters could mean so much.

Q. What benefits might seniors realize with additional
assistance?

A. Donna Calvo: There are many. First, we’re going
to raise self-esteem, improve social interaction
and possibly reduce doctor visits. We might even
discover that seniors are feeling more fulfilled with
their lives.