 | Roselyn Schmidt, R.N.,
partnering with husband Don and son Kent, designed, own, manage and operate Chaucer Estates, Retirement and Assisted Living. Since 1967, the Schmidt's have owned five nursing homes, managing and operating the facilities as a family. In 1986, they built Andover Health Care, and in 1995 became part owners of Park West in West Wichita, until the 1998 flood, leading them to create Chaucer Estates. Most recently, the Schmidt family has opened their newest retirement and assisted living facility in Overland Park, KS, "Rose Estates". Since 1955, Rose has enjoyed a vast nursing career, raised six children, and presently serves as Admissions, and oversees marketing at Chaucer Estates. You can reach Rose at (316) 630-8111, or visit Chaucer Estates at 10550 E. 21st North, in East Wichita. |
Senior Living
2004-10-01 15:07:00
Volunteering at a senior facility
: How do I go about getting involved (volunteering my time) with residents in care homes? How much of my time is expected?
ANSWER: If any of these words describe you: generous, compassionate, devoted, caring, and energetic, then you have the characteristics of a volunteer. Volunteering in a long-term care facility, whether it is a nursing home or assisted living, is a very rewarding experience. To find the home that will best fit you, contact the Administrator or Activity Director of a facility you wish to volunteer at. They can give a good insight what a volunteer could do in their facility. A volunteer can set his/her own time and pace. It could be as many hours or days a volunteer would want to offer. Any and all time is appreciated, as a volunteer can offer many a helping hand with tasks that are not nursing related: There is always time for visiting with residents; helping with outings, arts and crafts, entertainment, bingo, floral arranging, watering plants, involvement with music therapy, playing piano, singing, helping with ice cream socials, parties, special lunches, church services, card playing, delivering mail, and the list goes on and on. Volunteers provide valuable services to the senior living community. They can provide residents companionship, support, assist in letter writing, and lead activities. Some gratuities that facilities will offer (because there is no salary given) are special gifts, a nice meal, or maybe a recognition plaque. A special thank you and the appreciation from staff and residents go a long way with volunteers in long term care facilities. In becoming a volunteer, you have the opportunity to learn new skills, develop lasting friendships, and take pleasure in knowing you are helping others.
