Pasadena Star-News

Saturday, May 14, 2005 -

Lauding volunteerism

Visiting the residents of convalescent homes and senior care facilities is a joy. I find it a delight to meet and talk with them, to learn out about their past, their families, and their health.

Many times, I read to them, share an encouraging thought, or tell them something funny. Lately, I have been concentrating on St. Vincent Health Care on Fair Oaks, visiting them on a weekly basis.

I take pleasure in getting to know the residents better. I learned that Irene learned piano as a child and still plays brilliantly. Then, there is Roger who likes to dance, and knows all the words to many songs that play on the K-Earth 101 radio station. Richard, an artist, has beautifully drawn pictures in his room.

I know in time I will learn more about the others, because I am going to visit and talk with them individually as much as I am able. When I am visiting my new friends, I often think about my grandma and grandpa back in Virginia, ages 83 and 84, respectively. Fortunately, they are both still living in their own home and are able to get around on their own for now.

If there comes a point and time when they have to go into a facility, I hope they would receive visitors regularly, who would care about them and share with them. I know that if I live long enough, one day I myself might be a resident in a convalescent home.

However, in reality, you don't have to be elderly to find yourself in a home. Some residents can be quite young and live there because of an accident or some other mishap.

There is so much to gain by making these visits. The joy of seeing residents' faces light up when you call their name and walk toward them. The excitement they have when they talk about their childhood or the work they used to do. They appreciate the time and attention. That is a gift in itself, knowing you can make a small difference in a person's day and life, one moment at a time.

St. Vincent had an appreciation program for all volunteers this past week. It almost brought me to tears. One resident at St. Vincent named Louis Medley wrote a statement of gratitude to the volunteers. In part, it said, "When you give your time to care for, teach, and encourage us, it sends a message that we are valuable. We appreciate you; you are an important and valuable asset."

Why volunteer time, energy, and effort in the community? It brings great joy and satisfaction when you give to others. A wise man once said, "It is better to give than receive." No truer words have been spoken.

Paula Hines Lonergan

Pasadena.