Did you know…

• In 1900, there were 3.1 million seniors (over 65 years of age) in the U.S.?  About 1 in 25 Americans were seniors.
• In 1990, there were 31.1 million seniors in the U.S.? About 1 in 8 Americans were seniors. WOW! Ten times as many as in 1900.
• From 1990 to 2020, the senior population is projected to increase to 54 million people? In 2020, about 1 in 6 Americans will be seniors.
• In order for seniors to take care of and remain in their own homes, they need assistance.

Ask almost any senior American if they would like to stay in their home and the answer will be YES!  As people get older, it gets harder for them to take care of their houses and yards.  Grab some friends and offer to help.  Who knows?  You may even make some new “older” friends!

Project:
Help seniors by performing some chores around their homes.

Here’s what you need:

• Materials and tools will depend upon the scope of the tasks being performed for the senior person. You might want to ask local stores for donations of supplies necessary to perform the tasks.
• Optional Items: You may decide to bring along a special (inexpensive or homemade) treat when you visit the home of the senior.  (Examples: homemade baked goods, a flower, a new book, a homemade bookmark)

Here’s what you’re doing:
As people get older, it gets harder for them to take care of their houses and yards.  You and your friends can make a difference by lending a hand and helping these seniors with some chores around their houses.

Here’s how you do it:

1. Talk to your caregiver.  Tell them what you would like to do.  Make sure you get their OK.
2. Decide if you want to do this on your own or with a group of friends. Ask some adults to help you out.  The number of people you will help depends on whether you’re doing this on your own or with a group.
3. Is there someone in your family, neighborhood or community who could use some help at home?  If you can’t think of anyone personally, call one of the following local organizations:  Commission on Aging, Senior Services, Social Services, Senior Center, Meals on Wheels, or a local church.  Tell them what you would like to do.
4. Once you know who you will be helping, you can create a “Lend a Hand” survey to find out what help they need inside, outside or other.
5. Choose the day, time and how often you will be “lending a hand.”

Reflection Questions:

 Why do you think it’s important to “lend a hand” when someone needs it?

How do you think the seniors felt about you “lending a hand”?

Are there other ways that you can help seniors who are living alone?

Disclaimer: I promise to get my parent or caregiver’s permission to participate in this project.