SERVICE

February - June 2017 - Deer Lodge Hospital

Beginning this volunteer job, I was extremely uncertain and skeptical. I had never really interacted with seniors other than my gramma, who was in a care home. Visiting her there as a young girl was a little scary, so I didn’t know how I’d be. At Deer Lodge, I transport residents to and from evening recreation so they can listen to music. This involves me asking them if they’d like to come, which was very intimidating at first. I have become quite comfortable there as I become more familiar with residents. They all really like me and I get many compliments on my curly hair. Most of them that come to the music are very nice and appreciative of us.

Being there makes me realize how lonely some of them are and I am glad that I can provide them with some human interaction, beyond nurses and fellow residents. One of the things that is very noticeable about seniors is their desire to touch. They are very much deprived of human connection, especially those whose family rarely visits. Many will reach out to grab your hand when you speak with them, which I think is very sweet. It may be a little starting at first but when you come to know them, compassion takes over.

The last time I volunteered, a man invited me to to his wife’s birthday party (she lives there). Unfortunately, I couldn't make it but it was so nice of him to invite me. I felt bad that I couldn't go, so I brought her a set of fake flowers to last long and liven up her room. They were very appreciative which made me feel so good. I love to do whatever I can. Just seeing how a simple thing can make someone's day better is what aim to do for these residents. Meeting a new resident and inviting them to music is one of my favourite things because they always end up loving it, so now they have something to look forward to every thursday. I recently met this new woman, Anna, who was very lonely and had no one to talk to. When I invited her to music, she learnt of the possibilities at Deer Lodge and that made me glad. Now, every week I bring her to and from the music and help her pick up some new books at the library on the way (she loves murder mysteries). She is the type of lady who seems closed off and sort of angry, but is a real sweetheart and just wants some company.

The first resident I connected with, Mr. Hansell just turned 102 years and it’s amazing how functional he is still. His memory is a bit off and i’m not totally sure if he remembers me each week, but it’s remarkable how strong - and sassy - he remains. Not all of them are incapacitated, so maybe if we’re lucky, we can live that long. But that’s a whole other debacle.

I am so happy that the residents like me because I was skeptical about how I’d like it there and how I’d be with senior citizens. Now, I realize that I am very good with people of all age, despite my shyness. I think that having this skill with old folks is extremely valuable. It ties the older generations with the younger ones and allows me to better connect with my community. Often, old people are forgotten about because many of them live in homes, hidden away and we don’t take the time or effort to connect with them. I think there is a sort of taboo around senior’s homes, and I am not innocent in this prior to volunteering at one. Frankly, they freaked me out and this is not uncommon in people my age and younger. I honestly have gained such a huge appreciation for life whilst volunteering at Deer Lodge. At the same time, it saddens me to know that I could someday be in their position - somewhat helpless and many totally dependent on others to survive. I hope I’ll be lucky enough to never have to be in a home. The conditions are not terrible - they make it as comfortable as possible for all the residents and all the staff really care, but I can’t help but think that I would hate it.

I haven't any clue whether I'll return to Deer Lodge in the fall. I don't think so right now, but I might really miss it. I do enjoy helping these people and interacting with them, so maybe I could go back as a friendly visitor. My schedule might be crazy, so only time will tell! The Deer Lodge was a great decision of mine. I am so glad I applied, even though I only had half a year of it, it has made me much more well-rounded.