Celtic Healthcare Serving the MonValley

Volunteering:  It's the Right Time

As healthcare professionals, it's our responsibility to present and encourage unique techniques for living a health lifestyle to our patients, residents, and other older adults that we come in contact with.  These people may have some extra time… a lot of love to share… unique talents perfected over years of practice… or the urge to give to the world that has shaped their life's journey.  It might just be the perfect time for you to encourage volunteerism to the people around you.

In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 19 - 25), it's important to encourage volunteerism, especially among our wisest and most experienced generation - older adults.

The primary benefit of volunteering comes from the feeling of helping others, but there are personal benefits that volunteers, particularly older adults, receive as well:

• Learning and developing a new skill.  One thing's for sure, older adults have a solid set of skills gained from years of experience.  It may be time to sharpen some of those old skills - or learn a new one - to help others in need. 

• Being a part of the community.  Sometimes, older adults can begin to feel separated from their community.  Who are all of these young faces, what are some of the new community programs?  Volunteerism keeps them in the loop, and feeling a part of something positive.

• Increased mental functioning.  Doing the same thing day in and day out can lead to dulling mental capabilities.  Help them choose a volunteer program that keeps them engaged and interested.

• Meeting a diverse range of people.  One is never too old to meet new friends or to become a mentor to a child or teenager.  People of all backgrounds, ages, and educational levels are looking to connect with someone who can guide them through situations and offer advice and companionship.

• Reduced self-concern.  It's easy to get caught up in the little ways that life is getting tougher, perhaps decreased mobility or the health of loved ones.  Volunteerism has a funny way of putting life in perspective - and reminding us of all of our blessings. 

• Escaping from the daily routine of life.  Since many older adults are caretakers of spouses, volunteering may provide an outlet for stress-relief and personal time.  Getting out of your home environment may benefit you just as much as your service is benefiting others.

There are abundant opportunities in the Pittsburgh region - from animal care to food banks to youth programs.  In the medical / spiritual realm, Celtic Healthcare provides volunteers the chance to play a vital role in patient care.  Celtic Healthcare’s Hospice Volunteers provide an invaluable service to those who are nearing the end-stage of their lives and their family members.  Participating in truly sacred outreach, Celtic's volunteers are fully trained to better support the patient and their family.  Volunteers receive training in matters from medical issues to spiritual concerns to psycho-social issues to bereavement. 

It may just be the right time to encourage volunteerism or share some of your own strengths, skills, and heart.  For more information on volunteer opportunities with Celtic Healthcare, please call 1.800.355.8894 or visit www.celtichealthcare.com.

Remember, April is Occupational Therapy Month!

Celtic Healthcare would like to honor Occupational Therapy Month!  Occupational therapy enables people of all ages to live life to its fullest by helping them promote health and prevent - or live better with - injury, illness, or disability.  It is a practice deeply rooted in science and is evidence-based, meaning that the plan designed for each individual is supported by data, experience, and best practices that have been developed and proven over time.  Join us in showing our appreciation to Occupational Therapists this month!

Stay Well, The Celtic Way

Take advantage of open spaces.  See that parking lot?  That long unused hallway?  That park just down the road from your work place?  Take advantage of open spaces by using them for a brisk walk or a steady jog!