Giving Back: A Talent

The effects of aging could make some seniors feel they can no longer give back to their community or help family and friends.

But every day, older adults across North America prove that – with a little help – seniors can still make a difference. The Home Instead Senior Care^® network has captured simple and adaptable ideas from seniors and care community professionals to create the “Give-Back” program.

The “Give-Back” program offers resources for caregivers and care community activity professionals who are trying to help keep even frail and isolated seniors engaged and provide them opportunities to help others. Some projects can be adopted by an individual; others are ideal for group projects or as a meaningful activity with friends.

The need to be needed does not diminish with age, experts say. Keeping seniors connected and giving back might even help them age with better health, and help reduce feelings of isolation and depression. 

Older adults have spent a lifetime honing talents and hobbies. Learn the many ways they still can utilize those skills, with a little assistance.

Below are ways one can use his/her talent(s) to give back to others.

Knitting, crocheting and sewing – Some seniors, including those with dementia, can still knit and sew. Get started: Contact a church or hospital guild to learn of service projects that a senior could help with such as making prayer shawls or “Linus” blankets, or booties, blankets or hats for newborns.

Woodworking and Stained Glass – Whether they are skilled artisans or just hobbyists, many seniors enjoy working with natural materials. Get started: Encourage seniors to continue their hobbies, looking for ways they could give their creations to others who would appreciate their gifts.

Writing – Some older adults have the gift of writing. Get started: Look for projects where a senior could still use this skill, such as helping with a care community or church newsletter.

Entertaining – Many seniors enjoy playing music or performing for their contemporaries at care communities and hospitals. Get started: Call a hospital or care home to learn how a senior could share his or her talents.

Crafting and Scrapbooking – Many older adults like to craft and scrapbook. Get started: Encourage and help, if needed, a senior to create an ornament, scrapbook or other memento to give back a treasured keepsake to a family member or friend.

Baking and Cooking – Seniors who have always loved to cook or bake will value help doing what they still enjoy. Get started: Whether it’s Grandma’s dinner rolls or Aunt Beth’s famous pecan pie, help a senior bake these family goodies that you can give away, along with the recipe – if it’s not a secret!

For more resources and volunteer stories, go to SalutetoSeniorService.com.