Service Learning Project Analysis

I was assigned a Service Learning Project that required me to spend 25 hours with an elder/and or cognitive, physically, or developmentally delayed adult. The purpose of this project was to gain experience and acquire knowledge regarding the lifestyle, challenges, and activities of an aging adult or an adult with limitations. I was very apprehensive about this assignment. I had worked as a CNA and also volunteered in a memory care facility in the past. I felt that because of my previous experiences that this assignment was unnecessary. I already had experience working with the elderly and people with limitations. Therefore I did not think that this assignment would change my outlook on the aging population or people with limitations. I was going to be robbed of time with my family and have additional daycare costs so I could learn in an area where I was already experienced! Sue is the resident to whom I was assigned. After
However I believe that a person lacking experience in geriatrics or lacking experience with people with limitations could benefit from this project. I used this project to help introduce my children to our aging population and the assisted living environment. I enjoyed bringing them with me to interact with the grandfriends. I wanted them to experience the benefits of bringing joy to others.
On Mother’s Day I knew that Sue was not expecting any visitors because her children do not live nearby. I wanted Sue to know that she is wonderful and has a special spot in our hearts, so my two oldest boys and I went to visit. We brought her a gift. She was so surprised and excited. Her excitement radiated onto my children. Their faces lit up with excitement to Sue’s reaction to our visit. It was amazing watching the joy my boys felt as they handed Sue the gift and the happiness she experienced receiving