The other day I got a lovely email from Thomas, a reader who ministers in a retirement community:

I wanted to ask if you had any ideas, aside from Bible studies and spiritual services, for ways we could try and engage the residents. Do you do more one-on-one visits or other type of activities?

Some of the residents we have are not able to fully participate in these programs, so I wanted to know about other options as well.

Such a great question! I created a YouTube Short video to answer but also thought the question was worth a new blog. (Also check out this March 2020 blog I wrote at the start of the COVID-19 lockdowns.)

Be Present

Here’s how I responded to Thomas: “Yes, I love doing one-on-one visits with people, and there are numerous ways to engage them.

“For spiritual care, in my opinion, the best is simply offering conversation and prayer. If you’re limited by time, it doesn’t take long to find out how someone is doing, and then to offer to pray for them right then and there. Just keep it short — 30 seconds or so — and bring in scripture as appropriate. 

“Here are a few helpful scriptures to choose from: Bible Verses to Bless Elders …but reading just about any scripture is great!

“You do, of course, need to be sensitive to someone’s faith tradition. Here are some common “religious” prayers that work well. And here’s a Prayer of Forgiveness, specific to someone who is struggling with guilt over sin.

“If you can visit people over time, I like using the questions from this Spiritual Care Assessment. These are really helpful for learning about anyone, including those with no faith tradition.

“But the possibilities are endless!

• Maybe you’ll find out (via the Spiritual Care Assessment) that someone loves dogs — then find a way to bring in a therapy dog.
• Or that someone used to play the cello — bring up some cello music on your phone and listen to it together.
• Or someone loved to garden — find a way to engage them outside in the resident garden, planting bulbs or semi-started plants, or watering what’s already there. If adverse weather prevents going outside, consider bringing in flowers to make flower arrangements. (Many grocery stores donate their past-date flowers for this purpose; just ask!)
• Lots of people enjoy singing the classic old hymns. Just start up the music and sing along with them. You don’t necessarily need songbooks; many elders know many of these songs by heart.
• You get the idea 😇

“Honestly, just being with someone — really with them and paying attention to them (with the Lord at your side) — is the best gift of all.”

I’m sure others have some great suggestions, so please add your ideas in the comments below.

Peace be with you,

Photo: Getty Images for Unsplash+