“Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God. I am the Lord.”
Leviticus 19:32
Starting or joining a nursing home ministry is another great way to share God’s love as a family. Many seniors living in nursing homes feel lonely and forgotten, and they find great joy in having families visit to get to know them. When my husband’s grandmother was in a nursing home for a short time, I would take the kids to visit her, and I was so amazed that just walking down the hall with my little kids made all the seniors’ eyes light up and a smile come to their faces!
God Cares Ministry: National Resource Website
If you would like to learn more about nursing home ministry with your family, this is a great website to check out. You will find plenty of trainings and resources to equip and encourage you. I contacted one of the staff members, and she was happy to provide me with several resources below.
Ideas for Involving Youth in Nursing Home Ministry
Youth In Nursing Home Ministry Training Document
Fun Way to Involve Your Kids on a Snowy Day
How to Get Your Family Involved Around the Holidays
Children’s Outreach Ministry Ideas
Meals on Wheels: National Organization
Website
Meals on Wheels is an organization that serves seniors who are no longer able to cook or easily get out of the house by bringing them hot cooked meals. The most common way to volunteer for this organization is by delivering meals. I have heard of moms who have volunteered with their kids and had positive experiences. The website makes it easy to find a branch near you, and you can contact the branch for ways you can help. You would need to ask the specific branch about bringing children, but in most cases, this would be a great way to show love to our elders in need of nutritious food and some companionship.