Ministry of Presence: College Students Serve the Elderly

Olivia Lasater, writer of this blog, ministers to one of the residents of a Nashville tower by helping with her hair, nails, and conversation.

Each Wednesday morning, a group of college students disperse into the Old Hickory and Madison area with one mission in mind: to serve widows and the elderly. Suffice to say, this is not your typical college behavior. These students, however, have learned from Jesus to value the wisdom of the elderly and heed the biblical call to “look after widows in their distress” (James 1:27). Below you’ll read the insights of Institute for G.O.D Senior, Olivia Lasater on her time with the elderly population.

Can you share a memorable experience or story from your time volunteering with elderly residents that had a significant impact on you?

One experience comes to mind that I had with a lady named Joanne at McKendree. Our group went on a walk, and she has trouble seeing so I helped guide her walker. She lost her eyesight due to a medication that she was prescribed, and she told me there was nothing she could do about it. It made me so angry because I’ve had many interactions with the elderly population where I’ve recognized their complete vulnerability and lack of advocacy. She seemed settled in the fact that there was nothing she could do, and she continued on the conversation talking about her daughter. As we walked, she talked to me about her life and her job as a seamstress, her family and her kids. She pointed out other residents who inspire her as they were walking ahead of us and told me why they did. It was a really sweet conversation and at the end of it she tightly grabbed my arms and said, “Thank you so much for walking with me and taking care of me.” It seemed like the smallest thing I could do, but I saw how God continues to work through us in our conversations and time with them despite the various challenges they face.

Residents at Chippington Towers and other similar facilities around town love when “the students” come to spend time with them. Our relationship with the staff at the towers is quite strong, as they’ve been able to count on our students to meet the social and practical needs of residents every Wednesday afternoon.

What challenges or difficulties have you encountered while volunteering with elderly residents, and how did you overcome them?

I’ve been in some pretty dark and dirty apartments, where the lack of care is evident and manifested in the chaos and dirtiness of the environment. It can be challenging to maintain a pleasant face and good conversation when faced with a very dirty and chaotic environment. Being in those rooms has tested my endurance and ability to see and show love to the human in front of me beyond the attack on the senses. It has a deepened my relationship with the Lord and my friends I serve with and my understanding of the dedication it takes to serve the least of these.

Have you noticed any common misconceptions or stereotypes about the elderly population, and how do you address or challenge these when volunteering?

I think people often talk to the elderly population like they are children. While their mind may not be completely intact, I try to make sure that my conversation with them is respectful of them as someone much older than me. I try to take every opportunity to ask them about their life experiences.

“You will be surprised at how much this is a ministry of presence. Your person and your conversation will often be just as much of a blessing (if not more) as the cleaning is.”

So often, the elderly spend many days alone. Our students love visiting, playing cards, singing songs, and getting to know the residents, while helping them see their importance in the students’ lives as well.

Are there specific lessons or insights you've gained from your interactions with elderly residents?

I have seen how, despite what you do in life, most people all end up in the same place. It’s humbled me and reminded me of the importance of counting my days, so that I can get a heart of wisdom. I can tell that the people who sought God in their lifetime, have a significantly different quality of life than those who didn’t.

Institute students have also been volunteering at Fifty Forward, helping seniors understand and responsibly use technology. This practical service helps guard them from scams and helps them do important things like navigating websites and staying in contact with loved ones.

What skills have you developed while volunteering with elderly residents?

I have developed more social skills in being able to talk to most anyone, and sharpened my ability to prioritize the person in front of me, taking care of them before approaching any “tasks” we have.

What advice would you give to someone who is considering volunteering with elderly residents but may be hesitant or unsure about where to start?

Just be yourself and know that you will be blessed by this experience too! I like to think of the people we’re visiting as though they are my own grandparents and that helps me consider how I would want them to be treated and taken care of. The Lord will be with you when you visit them if you invite him into the moment. You will be surprised at how much this is a ministry of presence. Your person and your conversation will often be just as much of a blessing (if not more) as the cleaning is. Show up with your whole self and know that the Lord will help you!

In a world where college students are often stereotyped for their self-absorbed behavior, there is a group breaking the mold. Olivia is one of many who are faithfully giving their time and attention to serving the elderly each week. Take the inspiration from these young people, and let it be a call to action. Reach out to the elderly in your neighborhood, your local retirement homes, or community centers. Engage in conversations, offer your assistance, and be a source of companionship. In doing so, you'll not only brighten their days but also enrich your own life in ways you might never have imagined. Let's create a community where no one is left behind, and the wisdom of the elderly is cherished and celebrated.