There are millions of elderly people living in nursing homes or assisted living facilities in our country. All of these people have lived a rich life and have a lot of experience that young people can only imagine. Sadly, many people in our elderly population have been abandoned by their families because they have become a burden. Some nursing home residents never have any visitors at all, and they will die alone and sad. Even nursing homes that are very nice facilities and provide the best care possible cannot replace the friends and family members that the resident will miss. Another problems is that many nursing homes are understaffed and the residents get even less attention unless they have visitors. However, every person can make a difference for one of the lonely old people by going to visit them. Even a short visit can make a big difference. Many people think that it would be too much work to take the time to visit a nursing home, or they fear that it will be boring or depressing. It is actually very little work for how much the young person and old person will get out of it. I have spent many years visiting elderly people in nursing homes, and I have discovered that I have a lot in common with them. Everyone should make an effort to visit the elderly in nursing homes because it is kind to them, it is a rewarding experience, and it teaches us all about life.

             The first reason why people should visit the elderly in nursing homes and assisted living facilities is because it is kind to them. When an elderly person receives a visitor in the nursing home, their eyes light up and it is easy to see what a difference it makes for their mood and state of mind. There are many ways that a person can show kindness to a lonely elderly person. My experience has been focused on working with alcoholics and recovering alcoholics in nursing homes. Many of the residents have had emotional problems or trauma from their lives that has been unresolved.