Connecting, sharing and caring

Even the best of medical care doesn’t change the challenges of loneliness, identity and belonging. The caring staff members and volunteers of the Jewish Pavilion bring Yiddishkeit to the door or bedside of Jewish people living in assisted living and skilled nursing facilities. Jewish traditions, rituals, and culturally-based activities can turn everyday existence into a life of meaning, celebration, and connection.

Seniors who cannot live at home on their own are likely to encounter many challenges in the long-term care setting. As people become dependent on others, they feel stripped of their roles and relationships. Days can become boring and routine. JP programming gives them the opportunity to know they are still connected to their roots. They are not forgotten.

Jewish Pavilion visits give residents the opportunity to share and connect within the walls of their facility. Residents can look forward to “Jewish time” spent with friends. Jewish time can also connect them to the past and the future. The Jewish holiday schedule, for example, celebrated with them by JP staff and volunteers has gone on long before them and will continue long after them. It enables them to remain a part of the cycle of life they know and love. While JP programming doesn’t eliminate painful aspects of aging, it can foster resiliency in response to them. Sharing faith and conversation is a powerful combination that can fully nourish one’s soul.

The Jewish Pavilion’s programs are volunteer based. Volunteers are needed all the time, and volunteer opportunities are plentiful and year round. Call 407-678-9363 to connect with an elder near you. Visit http://www.jewishpavilion.org to learn more about this non-profit.

You can also contact http://www.orlandoseniorhelpdesk.org/ for assistance finding the right place so your family member can continue to live with Yiddishkeit supplied by the Jewish Pavilion.