PAUL MCMULLEN - MINISTRY TO SENIORS

Paul McMullen, chaplain at the Harold and Grace Baker Centre in Toronto, ON  recommends simple activities for volunteers who want to connect with residents who feel forgotten by family and friends.

“A layperson can connect with seniors simply by pushing a wheelchair, sitting down with a resident for a meal or just by listening.”

There are many ways to get involved: reading to residents, helping to write a letter, playing board games or bringing in a pet when you visit.

It doesn’t have to be complicated.  A short discussion with a chaplain or staff member is all that is needed to find an appropriate activity, speaking to the resident personally.  The opportunities and needs are many, even at homes that can afford an activity program.  Arthritics may be left out of a craft activity.  That is where one on one is so vital.  Once a need is identified, volunteering doesn’t require a major time commitment, although consistency is important.  If a resident knows you are coming they have something to look forward to.

Failing heath presents certain barriers, but here are some tips to follow for effective communication and participation.
Kneel down to their level if they are in a wheelchair.

Look directly at them and identify yourself.  Residents want to see your face and your lips moving.  They want to see you.

You need to adapt to special needs.  If there is a hearing problem get closer and determine what ear is better by asking.  If partially blind or totally blind touch is so important for the senior.  Don’t be afraid to put your hand gently around their shoulder (remember their bones are fragile)

Touch is so important, yet they can be so fragile.  A senior wants to know they are still valuable and useful.  By holding their hand or putting your arm around them increases blood flow and heart hate which is very therapeutic.  I sometimes give a gentle kiss on the forehead to show that they are loveable.

Some may think that dialogue may be difficult.  Let the senior do the talking.  I have learned that the best education learned outside of the classroom is sitting at the side of a senior.

I also recommend a gentle approach, anchored in humility.  We want to see people come to the Lord or rejuvenate a relationship with Him.  We must be living witnesses of the work He has done in our own lives.  You need to earn the opportunity.  Then you will have opportunity to present the gospel.

Ministry in long term care extends far beyond the resident.  Remember that family members are also in pain.  Sometime they are feeling guilty for have to put them their, even though there may not have been a choice.  We need to realize that this is mom or dad’s last home before eternity.  Don’t forget the staff members who look after the residents.  Some get very close and when one in their care passes away it can be extremely difficult for them also.

Surprisingly, even with death and pain hovering nearby, Chaplaincy and volunteering is usually a great blessing.  As for the volunteer they get more out of it, so I have heard some say, than the senior or the family member.

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(originally published in Faith Today)
Available for speaking to church groups, clubs or organization regarding Ministry in Long term care.
Paul McMullen 416-743-5101 or email chaplainpm@rogers.com