Utahns encouraged to 'adopt' seniors in nursing homes

HOLLADAY — Pop your head into a nursing home this time of year and chances are you'll run into a youth group singing Christmas carols or members of a nearby church delivering holiday goodies.

Once the holiday season ends, the facilities "become unbearably quiet even before the decorations are put away," says Deb Burcombe, deputy director of the Utah Health Care Association.

While friends and family may make a special point of visiting during the holidays and perhaps do so throughout the year, many residents of long-term care facilities have no regular visitors. A new initiative by the UHCA aims to connect residents to community members, who can provide companionship throughout the year.

"I think it's a good idea because there are so many lonely people," said Joann King, a resident of Holladay Healthcare Center. "It would be great for them."

The association, which represents long-term care facilities statewide, is looking for volunteers across the state.

The "Adopt a Senior" program would link volunteers to residents to build "lasting, mutually beneficial relationships," Burcombe said.

"For the residents, it's important to have caring people around throughout the years who truly make an effort to build lasting relationships with them. It's not so much about volunteering as it is being a friend and offering your time. This is absolutely the best gift that you can give."

Elinora Green, also a resident of Holladay Healthcare Center, said the staff provides many activities at the facility and many residents have formed friendships. Members of her family visit frequently.

But that's not the case for other residents, said King. "I know there are so many people who have no one in their lives. They may have family, but their family doesn't come to visit."

About half of the residents of the Holladay facility have no regular visitors, said administrator Len Southwick.

The facility keeps detailed information about each resident's life history, which would help administrators match them with community members who have like interests or experiences.

Southwick said he is also aware of many people in the community who want to serve others and are looking for a meaningful way to give back.

"Getting them together would be awesome," he said.