Volunteers bring added energy, creativity,
warmth and caring that is so vital to the well being of residents in care centres.
This is the firm belief of the team at Rand
Aid Association’s Ron Smith Care Centre, which for some time now has invited
members of the public and residents of its retirement villages to volunteer
their time at the Lyndhurst-based care centre, and in so doing, help enrich the
lives of scores of people no longer able to live independently.
“We appreciate that our volunteers help
residents keep their bodies, minds and spirits engaged and active, and that
they bring a bit of laughter and good cheer to their day,” says Debbie
Christen, Rand Aid’s Manager: Recreational Programmes.
“We are grateful for the help and service
that our volunteers give to our organisation but, more importantly, we value
the precious and meaningful relationships that they build up with our sometimes
very frail and aged residents. It is truly a priceless gift that is treasured
by so many.”
However, she says that many of Rand Aid’s
experienced volunteers have had to resign their services due to poor and
failing health, the effects of aging, lack of time due to other commitments or
because they have relocated.
Community members with time and energy to
spare are asked to considering volunteering at the care centre. No experience
is necessary as in-house coaching takes place.
“Volunteers can help in a variety of ways. Some
faithfully commit to leading programmes week after week in exercises, walking,
music, singing, dancing, reading, armchair travel, library trolley, painting,
card making, news group and bible study,” says Debbie.
“Others regularly visit the occupational
therapy department to help the residents with baking, knitting, games, puzzles,
arts and crafts and music and movement. There is also a dedicated group of
volunteers who provide sensory stimulation activities to our residents living
with dementia on River Lodge 3.
“Finally, there is a special category of
friendly volunteers who have the gift of engaging with and listening to our
residents, some of whom are very lonely and long for some kind of communication
and connection with another human being. These volunteers visit specific
residents regularly and take the time to have a cup of tea and a chat with each
one.
“Volunteers do much to brighten up days and
enrich lives at Ron Smith Care Centre,” adds Debbie. “Sometimes you actually
see residents’ eyes light up when they see a volunteer. Other times you may not
get the response you hoped for. Yet I am totally convinced that that person is
still somehow taking in and absorbing the fact that someone is showing love and
care and trying to make a connection.”
If you are interested in joining
the volunteer group, please contact Debbie Christen at 011 882 6296.
Resident Lorna Smith and volunteer Denise Stewart spent a pleasant morning hand-making bath products.
Volunteer Julie Potgieter and resident Isaac Poulton try their hand at soap making.
.
