Date the Weekly Reflection was first submitted: 01/28/2020

Name: Lauren

Nursing Home: Signature Health Care Center

Date of visit:

Length of visit: 1

1. The reading for this week talked about being present with the people we are visiting at the nursing home. Being present means we leave our troubles behind, we don’t look at our watch or phone every few minutes, and we listen like a true friend. Is it difficult for you to be present with those at the nursing home? In what way could you improve?

Visiting the nursing home in the evening, I bring with me all of the stress and preoccupations of the day. It can certainly be difficult to be present with the residents, especially if they tend to repeat themselves or talk incoherently, but I try my best to focus on them and nothing else. I try to avoid distraction by leaving my phone in the car, but this week I didn't because of the traffic and I certainly felt more distracted. I can improve by making a conscious effort to clear my mind before entering the nursing room doors, so I am free to focus on people and not distractions.

2. Have you met a resident or residents that you plan to visit weekly yet? If so, what has helped you to connect to them so far?

I've talked to Mrs. Fiore and Mrs. Brown before, and this visit I met Ms. Josephine for the first time. I enjoyed talking to all three of them, as well as all of the other residents I met. I really enjoy listening to them talk about their lives and learning about the things they've done.

3. Are you able to relax while you visit people at the nursing home, or is it still somewhat scary or uncomfortable? (Be honest — most volunteers tell us it took them 4 or more weeks until they truly felt at ease.)

I feel more relaxed when visiting the nursing home than I did the last two weeks, although I think it will take a few weeks to become more comfortable. Becoming familiar with more of the residents and just spending more time in the nursing home will certainly help.