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For Immediate Release: 11/28/07

Help Long–Term Care Residents Celebrate the Holidays

Getting together with family and friends, cooking and traveling are all part of the holiday season. But many people who live in our communities won't be doing any of these things. Residents in nursing homes and assisted living facilities find it difficult to celebrate the season. They may have no family who will visit, presents to purchase, or traveling to do.

"Health issues, depression, and loneliness add additional stress for residents and cause them to withdraw during this time of year," says Carol Scott, state ombudsman for the Missouri Long–Term Care Ombudsman Program. "Now more than ever, these citizens need someone who will come to their 'home' and listen, someone who will be a friend."

Missourians of all ages can befriend and adopt a resident in a long–term care facility. Try visiting a resident, talking to and learning about each other, reading together, playing games or sharing a favorite holiday song. You might also bring a small gift or food item, as long as the nursing home approves. But make sure the resident does not have diet restrictions or allergies to certain foods. The gift you give of yourself, however, is greater than any gift you could buy.

The Missouri Long–Term Care Ombudsman Program staff and volunteers listen to and advocate for residents in long–term care facilities throughout the year. They receive many smiles and thanks for their efforts. You can, too. For more information on the Missouri Long–Term Care Ombudsman Program, please call 1-800-309-3282, or go to http://www.dhss.mo.gov/Ombudsman/.

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