February is the month that people think of “LOVE” and will send flowers or cards or candy to show that special person they care about that they “LOVE” them. Although this is something that some people do only once a year, people need to feel that others “LOVE” them and care for them more than just once a year.
The best gift to give to someone is yourself ! By being present. You can share that gift with those that need it the most— those who are residents of nursing homes and assisted- living facilities. Because of their circumstances, they do not get to see their loved ones so much. Your visit can lift the spirits of these residents.
There are some residents that do not receive visitors, so receiving a visit from you may be the only visit that they have had in a long time. You can be the one person that can make a big difference to someone by having a heart that cares and going the extra mile with just a smile. Sharing this kind of “LOVE” can go all year round and last a lifetime.
Contact a nursing home or assisted living facility near you to see how you can make a residents’ day by visiting. To learn more or if you would like to become an Ombudsman Volunteer, contact Tiffany Wingfield at 580-775-7478 or Gina Smith at 580-7757794 or you can reach them at SODA Agency on Aging at 580-920-1388 or Senior Info. Line 1-800-211-2116. You can write to them at P.O. Box 709 Durant, OK. 74702. Ombudsman Supervisors are available to speak to your group or organization upon request.