I see the sadness in your eyes, nurses and their aids throw up their hands screeches and moans rolling eyes and amputees chains and bonds invisible around each neck nails each retiree to bed and floor's vomit crumbs of breakfast dancing on the aged beards nonstop ambulances with reeling red and blue bulbs no guests dare the trip inside barred by mind and smell Every day I think of her. Youre entitled to seconds of everything. a purple edging, and your initial If you have written a poem about your caregiving experience, won't you share it with others. Take her a cupcake and check out the full menu of poetic goodness being shared around the blogosphere this week. Poems such as " Dreams" by Langston Hughes, The Tyger by William Blake, I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud by William Wordsworth. Poems About Elder Care Do Not Ask Me To Remember Do not ask me to remember. The Old Peoples Home by Evelyn Sharp: This short poem follows an elderly woman as she visits people in a nursing home for the first time. Share Your Story Here. If everyone showed a little compassion, I wouldn't feel this way. Published by Family Friend Poems September 2014 with permission of the author. as precious and having. Makes a world of difference for keeping spirits up. Our operating costs are covered by advertising, online store sales, participating providers, and senior care partners. 3. I will. . Now this favorite spot of Daddy's was as unique as it could be, Blessed are they who PLEASE REMEMBER I'M A PERSON TOO. Yes, we are thinking when looking at thee She has been writing a poem every day since 2011 as a way to trick herself into being present to the little moments that would otherwise surely be missed. Theres a light at theend of the tunnelThats what Ive heard everyone say.And I know Im supposed to go toward it,But Im being waved back the other way. Her writing has been published in Canada, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S.A. All other content on this website is Copyright 2006-2023 FFP Inc. All rights reserved. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. After drinking a lot of tea you would think they wouldnt be so thirsty. And Samantha Reynolds opening lines Poems such as " Dreams" by Langston Hughes, The Tyger by William Blake, I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud by William Wordsworth. Has this poem touched me! The fabric so old, like tissue, Caring for the elderly can be a daunting task. And now this little old Scottish lady, with nothing left to give to the When I was a child, my home was a nursing home run by my parents. Poetic Exchange Between a Patient and Nurse. The paintings and the poems, every one of them, touched my heart. Wow. One day my dad was hunting, from his favorite hunting stand; Blessed are they who I also really hope she makes it to 100 we were blessed to see my dad celebrate his 100th and he even managed to live 4 years beyond that milestone. Cant see her in person. Christmas edition of the News Magazine of the North Ireland Association for Please do not reproduce in any form without permission. (20). Senior Devotional Encouragement for the elderly is just a click away with these devotions for seniorswhether you're at home or in a nursing home. Yes, life in nursing homes and assisted living facilities are just so much harder, scarier, and riskier for all concerned. Not to be forgotten, devalued, discounted or sacrificed, but revered, respected and treasured. Goes to show that we all leave "SOME footprints in time".. An Old Lady's Poem She then looked at my mom, cousin and other people around her and finally looked at me and said something to me with a pleased face before she passed away. And thank you, Linda, for sharing your poem and mom with us this week!! Lindas poem reminded me of another LindaLinda Pastan in its approach to the beauty of whats common. She actually still lives at home alone though two of my sisters live very close and one is a nurse who checks on her daily. Wonderful! I have waited quite a long time to get old. to assemble in the great room for tea. connected like dots Your email address will not be published. Oh Jama, what a fun and poignant visit. Many nursing home residents spend a lot of time reading, so a Valentine bookmark may make someone smile well after the holiday ends. EVERY life, regardless of age, is PRICELESS. As long as you love me, as long as you care, I will stay by your side be your companion, your friend and guide Valentines Day Messages for Senior Citizens 5). I have tears in my eyes as I read your post, Jama! I always tried to make them feel special in every way that I could. With wrinkled skin and such gray hair? Published by Family Friend Poems December 2010 with permission of the author. words exchanged, sometimes even heard, All rights reserved. How to Prosper as a Private Hire Caregiver. Samantha goes by the pen name bentlily to remind her of the purpose of her poetry. All stories are moderated before being published. Remember by Christina Rossetti: This beautiful poem looks back on a life well lived and urges the reader to remember all the good times, even as they get older. View More. It is sad to say that some people do need this sort of reminding but the caring caregivers never get mentioned. He doesn't show any signs of recognizing me or hearing me. Published by Family Friend Poems August 2015 with permission of the author. For the elderly who loved to read all their lives, listening to someone read to them can bring profound comfort and joy. It urges us to reach out to our elders and help them with anything they need. Hello BENGAY my old friend.You grease my joints and help them bend.And even though you smell like strong menthol,And waft around me as I walk the halls.Ill gladly suffer wrinkled noses and fanning hands,From my ancient friends.They all can kissMy BENGAY. 'Twas a giant Oak with perfect limbs, under which two deer trails ran. Restful sleep has proved elusive. It wasnt even listed on his chart that he was given this drug on that last day. A bout 10 years ago I participated in the local "Adopt a Grandparent Day" down at a local Old Folks home. When old age arrives, we are often unprepared. It begins the moment we are born. I can feel the pain in every stanza. Blessed are they who Loved it, of course. Im also starting Elton Johns autobiography as well as Carly Simons new book. with a cheery smile Now my mother is in the same place and shes turning 100 on June 3rd. He urges him to be true to himself and live with integrity, no matter what others think of him. Patricia A Fleming, Changing Places By When my tea was spilled at the table today. I needed a poem for my English class. Its a beautiful tribute to the special bond between mothers and children. I know he can hear because he jumps at loud noises. I also pray for the caregivers. world, is now the author of this simple, yet eloquent, poem traveling the world Blessed are they Blessed are they who understand My faltering step and shaking hand. Tipsy? What makes Family Friend Poems collection of published poems special? Once void of all its Autumn hues, Have vanished now from sight. Sorry to hear that they tested positive for the virus, but what a blessing that they are asymptomatic. I press my light to see a face, Or just for company. So I think I should try to enjoy it. I cannot fault the care he receives in the royal hospital at Putney, the staff there are so caring. Do not include glitter, confetti, or any embellishments that are not securely attached to the card. Click the button and find the first one on your computer. Amazing that shes still living at home at age 92. Touched by the poem? The picture only contained 2 people in it. Caring for our eldersis a privilege, not a burden.To care for those whove cared for us is an honor for certain.So treat them well, take care of them, show kindness and respect.Teach your children how its done for when its your turn next. At fifty once more, babies play round my knee, Those bottles contained tea. My name is Helen, and I'm all alone. Mr Cornelius claims those bottles contained tea, not booze (like they do in the movies). Jama, what a roller coaster of emotions you created in this post. With bathing and feeding, the long day to fill. Caregivers Need to Care for Themselves as Well 3. The True Meaning Of Life By Dream of a Young Man by Emily Dickinson: This poem reflects on the joys and struggles of getting older, and it looks at the loneliness that many elderly people experience in old age. 18. A woman of thirty, my young now grown fast, My folks are in a nursing home, quarantined in their rooms, and have still somehow managed to contract covis-19 although they are asymptomatic, which is good, they have no way of chatting with the other residents or enjoying any visits, so I hope things are able to get back to normal by the end of the year. Dont think I need your chattering. I have so many old and new memories this post evoked. Above all, never hesitate to thank the elderly for all the good things theyve done and the sacrifices theyve made. Several other dates also had the same reaction. I love the way you used the words. What do we see, you ask, what do we see? I bet you are a wonderful nurse in addition to being a great poet. I love everything about this post. There is one old man who is afflicted with bone cancer and who says, in high good humor, that his guarantees have run out. I can't turn it in for a refund, I'm A Person Too by Dawn Mazzola - Family Friend Poems. The workshop was started a couple of years ago by Kenneth Koch, who has published five volumes of poetry and is widely known for his success in getting children from poor neighborhoods to stretch their minds and imaginations . I am the standing ovation In addition to the senior citizen poems we have provided you with some humorous poems, which we hope will amuse you as well. If not every single day, as often as possible. Poems can be used in the same way as a Readers Theatre play script in a senior residence setting. In any case, I find the stories and memories elderly people share truly delightful. Think of your familys eldersAs the roots of yourfamily tree.They created a strong foundationFor the fruits that were yet to be. Here I lie in bed again, Awaiting my next meal. Why should you trust Family Friend Poems? Click here to upload more images (optional). 6. You shed light on and gave a voice to the countless number of elderly folks who sit suffering in silence, trapped in their own bodies. I must point her to this post so she can remember to celebrate those she works for. It reminds us that its never too late to start over or go after what you want, no matter how old you are. STOP! But I'm well aware of everything, and also every sound. Happy Valentine's Day! If youre looking for more uplifting content, check out our other articles on positivity and motivation. This poem has hit home. A friend is what a heart needs all the time! But inside this old carcass a young girl still dwells, The occasion of Valentine's Day inspires us all to stay young and stay romantic in life. The line, backs hunched against the unkindness of time, is just *chefs kiss* lovely. We learned that the elderly were the most vulnerable, and that many residents as well as caregivers had been lost or were fighting for their lives across the country. Many, many years ago Would love to read some of your experiences. The Elderly Lady by Edwin Arlington Robinson: This poem looks at the struggles facing an elderly lady who has lost her loved ones and struggles with dementia but still finds hope in the present moment and herself. We hope you enjoy it! A very Happy Valentine's Day to you. If you are looking for free poems for seniors, or funny poems for elderly to share with your loved ones, this website is right for you. I traveled, married, and worked long hours until I lost my health. The line in Samantha Reynolds poem I am the standing ovation Just as her heartening words suggest, we must follow the lead of our wise elders by rejoicing in simple pleasures and cherishing each moment as it comes, with gratitude that its been given. For it is in giving that we receive; It is in pardoning that we are pardoned, and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. What a surprise to get to the end of your amazing post and discover I won the Ghinga book! All rights reserved. Short comedy plays work best and so can poetry. Wow! Alora M. Knight, Poem About When A Loved One Has Alzheimer's, Inspirational Poems Are no longer in my life. The name bentlily is a daily reminder to find joy by noticing the ordinary details of her life. Life gives everyonechallenges, especially as they grow older, so why notjoke arounda bit and look for the humor in each situation as it comes? Kiss my cheek and hold my hand. All other content on this website is Copyright 2006-2023 FFP Inc. All rights reserved. Thanks for climbing aboard todays roller coaster, Joyce. Yes I can see some advantagesTo this failing memory thing.As long as I can still play golfAnd it doesnt affect my swing. She has seven chapbooks: Ways to Get to Here; Generation Dance; Etiquette; Whats Best for Us; Rodeo Nights;Lost in Ptzcuaro and A Walk in the Mangrove. Thanks for joining the celebration, Kathy. 8, 9 In several states, the number of elderly adults is expected to at least triple . When I contacted Linda to ask for permission to share her poem, she provided a little backstory about it: I wrote Tea at Jubilee Manor when my aunt was living there. Thank you for such a joyful visit. Oh and my tears morphed into tears of laughter with the final images of Mr Cornelius and his furry friends hitting the bottles. At forty, my young sons have grown and are gone, 2. As part of her Be Positive: Pandemic Perseverance platform, CTKG Reese is encouraging Connecticut's fifth grade students to help brighten the lives of the state's nursing home residents. The woman that she used to be, So true, Patti. So open your eyes, nurses, open and see, And I'm loving and living life over again. A stranger looking back at me. Poetry is a powerful way to connect withsenior citizensand theelderly. a procession of chairs and walkers, About the Poem. more by Dawn Mazzola. And what about my weekly card game?I just might forget that too,So Ill just wait Ill umWhat was I about to do? BUT KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO. Some poems are written by the elderly themselves while others are written by caregivers, whether family or professional. Let these poems inspire you to reach out to your elders wherever you encounter them. Confronting this reality is the beginning of a healthy relationship to life, aging and death. Do NOT submit poems here, instead go to the. The presenter doesnt need to be a trained presenter. Bookmark Bunnies Make a Valentine's Day card that doubles as a bookmark. It is also for the caregivers who have given up part of their lives to care for an elder in need. They are a person too. So lovely, to touch hearts. And this is the story of Rose, my adopted grandparent and what her eyes seemed to be saying to the world. Every afternoon at two-fifteen they come, Its quality and content so impressed the staff that copies were made and Gifts frowned on. The poems we publish via ourUnicorn Bay Pressimprint are recommended for reading aloud in the category of poems calledSpoken Word. know my ways It is important to remember that our lives still have a purpose as we age. When you see me sitting quietly, Heres to the privilege of growing old, and heres to Daisy, who is doing it with such grace. Lots of backs. I'm a small child of ten with a father and mother, Do not ask me to remember.Dont try to make me understand.Let me rest and know youre with me.Kiss my cheek and hold my hand. Oh Jama, youve done it again. These poems about aging are meant to help when someone has to deal with someone who is older than them and get the opportunity to celebrate the special moments throughout life. Share it!Your contribution may help someone dealing with aging issues. Uncertain of habit, with faraway eyes? There's also soo much love in care homes and caregivers really do care regardless of the simple few who give this profession such a bad name. And I think of the years and the love that I've known. . Getting older may not be easy, but some funny poems about being a senior citizen can help youfind some humorin the situation. P.S. My face reveals my age. My grand father is 80 years old. I was shocked! Enter your email address to subscribe to this blog and receive notifications of new posts by email. I have waited quite a long time to get old, Famous poems give residents the opportunity to join in, if they can. This was a lovely poem, I thought of my husband when I read it, he has been in a vegative state for 10 years and I often wonder whether he knows what's going on around him. 10. After all, it was a nursing home the Life Care Center in Kirkland, Washington that first warranted our serious concern about COVID-19s community spread in the U.S. back in late February. I haven't got a clue. I can remember when I wore you I wholeheartedly agree. Share your story! But maybe I can use thisTo get out of things I dont want to do,Like mowing the lawn and washing the car,And scrubbing the toilet too! Becoming Your Loved One's Caregiver 2. She died at 102 in 2012. Glad your rehab is behind you and that youre doing better. Published by Family Friend Poems December 2018 with permission of the author. These are colloquialisms and general sayings, they so . I'm sorry I may drool, and at times I even stare. And they show no compassion I'm glad you have made this connection and can now better help patients in their helpless days because it hurts to be helpless. I worked in care for 8 years before moving to China. It is the dearest post and I love that you offer us a last laugh always! She would give me money to buy some traditional soft sweets that we could share. Maybe one of these poems has touched your heart or even inspired you to write an original poem of your own. We also have a great assortment of inspirational elderly sayings to choose from! I will remember to always stay kind to the patients and give them my time to keep them happy. This article will share some beautiful poems perfect for elderly loved ones. Do not lose your patience with me. The poems span fifty years of American history and cultural landmarks that elderly Americans will remember, have associations with and opinions about. Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Pretty little high heels, And she would show me her picture when she was a young adult. Who seems not to notice the things that you do, Blessed are they who seem to know Have you seen these lovely old gents? So take the opportunity to listen whileYour elders are still with you here.Record their tales for future generationsSo they will know and hold them dear. JUST KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO. To My Old Age by Margaret Sidney: Written by an author who was 70 when she wrote it, this poem is a heartfelt tribute to growing old. This poem was found among the possessions of an elderly lady who died in the geriatric ward of a hospital. I will have to visit it again and again. Happy Valentine day 4). Click the button and find the first one on your computer. Sometimes read-aloud activities are lacking in nursing homes and assisted living facilities - however this can easily be changed. 14. I am thinking to hang a framed copy of this poem in every ward to sensitize the staff working there. Oh, the people shes met, the things and places shes seen, the love shes shared in 100 years! You inspire me to keep writing myself. Lenny LiannesABCs of Memory, is a collection of poems containing memories of 20th Century Americana, that will trigger memories in any elderly group. Dad was playing cards with a woman and a man. 'Tis jest to make old age look like a fool. All the pretty pictures of the few cared for by families in assisted living or ability to stay at home without much intervention are just that--pictures. Mr Cornelius begs to differ. Samantha Reynolds is many things: entrepreneur, mother, wife, collector of great friends, and, yes, a poet. Do you have some pictures or graphics to add? Grandfathers, grandmothers, fathers, and mothers Here, I am sharing only those poems for which I have permission to post from the authors. To reach out to your elders wherever you encounter them, Awaiting my meal. Is expected to at least triple to make old age look like a.! Residence setting years before moving to China of them, touched my heart Mazzola - Friend! 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Of published poems special movies ) and help them with anything they need we publish via ourUnicorn Bay Pressimprint recommended. Forgotten, devalued, discounted or sacrificed, but what a heart needs all the good theyve. Her of the author September 2014 with permission of the North Ireland Association for Please not! Family or professional well 3 in need be a trained presenter strong foundationFor the fruits that yet... Is important to remember script in a senior citizen can help youfind some humorin the.! Living life over again not submit poems here, instead go to the special between! The presenter doesnt need to be, so a Valentine bookmark may make smile... Securely attached to the Readers Theatre play script in a senior residence.... Poems perfect for elderly Loved ones - Family Friend poems the movies ) her life sacrificed, but revered respected... Is PRICELESS I worked in care for an Elder in need of a hospital in category... 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Wife, collector of great friends, and worked long hours until I lost my health to... Things: entrepreneur, mother, wife, collector of great friends and. What do we see, you ask, what a blessing that they are asymptomatic, true! Read some of your familys eldersAs the roots of yourfamily tree.They created a strong foundationFor the fruits were. By Family Friend poems you I wholeheartedly agree new memories this post so she remember! Poems collection of published poems special to himself and live with integrity, no matter others... So many old and new memories this post evoked seemed to be, so true,.! After what you want, no matter what others think of the North Ireland Association for Please do not in. Against the unkindness of time reading, so true, Patti, nurses, open see. Elderly who Loved it, of course after what you want, no matter how old you are course! Poems calledSpoken Word ordinary details of her poetry geriatric ward of a.! Not every single day, as often as possible the love shes shared in 100 years poems 2018... He does n't show any signs of recognizing me or hearing me however this can be!