Quality Time

I have learned that the community issue of almost "forgetting" about the older generation definitely exists and is a prevalent problem. I would speculate that this is probably true for multiple communities, and not a unique problem to Springfield, Missouri. However, it is disheartening to enter Ravenwood Assisted Living and know that few if any volunteers have spent time with the residents since our last visit. Our community partner, Sharon Mathis, told us last semester that when she came back to Ravenwood on Monday morning the residents would often still be talking about or excitedly relay stories to her about our visit with them Saturday afternoon. One thing that has definitely frustrated me while becoming more familiar with the issue of a forgotten generation, is that even the care takers employed to help the older adults are not always as friendly to the residents as one would imagine. These older adults have little to look forward to throughout their long days because no one is engaging with them anymore. Some of the residents' families never or rarely visit and that's what it is important for employees and volunteers to talk with them, play games with them, and engage them in life daily.

I feel connected to this issue because I think that it means Project Ravenwood is really making a difference. Our team can make the days of the residents we spend time with, play music for, and talk to. Going to Ravenwood Assisted Living and simply asking a resident what they are feeling and listening to a story they want to tell makes a difference in their life because even if only for that day, they feel loved and important. Everyone should have the benefit of feeling loved and important. I am glad that our project can help the residents of Ravenwood and I am honored to hear the stories they have to tell and spend time with them, especially when it brightens their day.