I am the standing ovation Skinny fingers clawed in monstrous shapes, How special to honor Daisy with this delectable spread and sensitive poems. So I went. This poem has touched me. Glad you enjoyed the post and seeing the paintings. This is about life altering experiences. . Makes a world of difference for keeping spirits up. Were you touched by this poem? There is now a stone where I once had a heart. To Age by Ralph Waldo Emerson: This poem looks at aging as natural and positive, full of wisdom and experience. Comment * document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute( "id", "a3df304ca16aea585d5161f054c741f9" );document.getElementById("e218d56cc5").setAttribute( "id", "comment" ); Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Readers Theatre is where participants read a play script, each actor takes a role and reads the lines of that character. I dreamt I died and went to heaven,And the angels all gave me a nod,Then I met my maker and realized its true,I really am older than God! If not for the roots your elders put down,None of this would have been conceivable.So thank them for their love and care,Because with these gifts, anythings achievable! Several other dates also had the same reaction. And I could proudly stand. of meadow-flowers and butterflies Becoming Your Loved One's Caregiver 2. Help us build the most popular collection of contemporary poetry on the internet! 14. I always respected my residents and my private clients and demanded that everyone else did. From celebrating life until its end to giving thanks for what time remains, these poems commemorate the elderly in all their glory and remind us that we are never too old to enjoy life. Poems such as " Dreams" by Langston Hughes, The Tyger by William Blake, I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud by William Wordsworth. 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. A bit late but never mind. Like Bridget, tears are running down my cheeks, remembering Mom and her cohorts, first in assisted living, and then at the nursing home. I worked in care for 8 years before moving to China. I needed a poem for my English class. The cherished ritual of afternoon tea took on an added poignancy as I thought of those who no longer have the joy of a last dance to look forward to. 9. Patricia A Fleming, Changing Places By in summers that have been; Those things that meant the most to me Published by Family Friend Poems August 2015 with permission of the author. O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console; to be understood as to understand; to be loved as to love. (6). CORYDON, Ind. No memorizing is needed and the play can be read several times, either with the same actors reading the same lines or changing actors to read different roles for second or third readings. Make sure your happy messages are generic and nonreligious, for example "Warmest wishes" or . It's a nursing home in Nelson, BC. Blessed are they who I am currently caring for and have two care givers looking after my 80 year old mother. Its a lighthearted look at aging and a reminder to enjoy life. One always lives in this Will I slowly wither like a leaf . Our favorite lines of poetry There's stuff I had and did. If everyone showed a little compassion, I wouldn't feel this way. Mom and her cohorts its good to hear of those cherished friendships forged in assisted living places/care homes, etc. 13. These are all delightful memory-jogging poems, each of an acceptable length for seniors to listen to without losing interest or focus. I may be sad, I may be blue. It is about one heart touching another. The Oldest Living Confederate Widow Tells All by Allan Gurganus: This poem tells the story of an elderly woman reflecting on her life and all she has seen. . Ill have one of everything you can fit on my plate. But it takes a turn towards the end, warning that youth is fleeting and urging us to enjoy every moment while we still can. is 92 and I hope she makes it to her 100th (and beyond!). Oh, look its 2:15! And thank you, Linda, for sharing your poem and mom with us this week!! Touched by the poem? A baby bear bowl full of porridge in the morning with powdered sugar sprinkled on top. Entering your contribution is easy to do. Oh Jama, youve done it again. Maybe a few of these original poems will give you a giggle youll want to share with your friends. I do too, laughed the old man. Thank You for sharing this, sometimes we need a picture into anothers life to more appreciate ours. Learn more about Linda at her Official Website and blog, Purple Mountain Poetry. Poems such as Dreams by Langston Hughes, The Tyger by William Blake, I Wandered Lonely as a Cloud by William Wordsworth. The Lesson by Katherine Kay Gallerani: This uplifting poem celebrates all the lessons learned throughout an entire lifetime, including big and small ones and the ones we didnt even know we were learning. At forty, my young sons have grown and are gone, But my man's beside me to see I don't mourn. The old lady's sole bequest to posterity has since appeared in the I'm a small child of ten with a father and mother, After the poignant poem and story/celebration of Daisy, I cant help but remember my dear grandmothers and great aunts who made my life special in ways it would take a book to write, Jama. The woman that she used to be, Youre entitled to seconds of everything. Theres that strong old trunkWhich branches in every direction,And leaves which represent family membersFor whom you hold affection. I see the sadness in your eyes, 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. Confronting this reality is the beginning of a healthy relationship to life, aging and death. acknowledgement for what they do. Published by Family Friend Poems September 2017 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. Have vanished now from sight. Now that these poems have provided a little inspiration, take a crack at writing some silly senior poetry of your own. 11. Just a little knock. Share your story! Poems about Growing Old Aging is a natural process of life. Nursing homes have been in the news a lot lately. These are the cards God dealt me, There's nothing I can do. 6. I also pray for the caregivers. Warm wishes on this beautiful day to you. My mom was in a nursing home for 3 yrs. of all that I have seen Jama, what a roller coaster of emotions you created in this post. John Burningham (Mr Grumpys Outing, 1970). 2. Yes, life in nursing homes and assisted living facilities are just so much harder, scarier, and riskier for all concerned. She died at 102 in 2012. These are the cards God dealt me, There's nothing I can do. 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. or unaided in a slow and ponderous shuffle, 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. Remember to include your full name as the author. Aging is a natural process of life. No flowers. When I stumbled upon this lovely poem by Canadian poet Linda Crosfield recently, I couldnt help but view it through the lens of the pandemic. In addition to the senior citizen poems we have provided you with some humorous poems, which we hope will amuse you as well. We're all clocks just trying to keep up with time, knowing full that in the end, time will win. At a dull corporate event years ago, she noticed a lily that was bent over in a centerpiece of flowers. and many times don't receive. I felt it was a privilege to be able to do such work . PLEASE REMEMBER I'M A PERSON TOO. . Poem About When A Loved One Has Alzheimer's, Funny Poem About Giving Up Things As You Age, Funny Poem About Not Getting Enough Sleep. I'll tell you who I am as I sit here so still, As it turns out, though, there was a bright spot, a glimmer of hope. Share your story! And what about my weekly card game?I just might forget that too,So Ill just wait Ill umWhat was I about to do? 8, 9 In several states, the number of elderly adults is expected to at least triple . 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. So I open your eyes, nurses, open and see, Not a crabby old woman, look closer, nurses see ME! And care for me in loving ways. Heres to the privilege of growing old, and heres to Daisy, who is doing it with such grace. Touched by the poem? Have your grandma recite one of these funny poems for senior citizens, or a poem about elderly in nursing homes. When you see an elder anxiously trying to cross a busy road,Help him or her across; youve no idea of the gift youve bestowed. If not every single day, as often as possible. 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. Its a reminder that every day is an opportunity to grow and learn something new. Poems for Grandparents Day 1 A Poem for Nurses Poems for Mother's Day 17 Remembering the clothesline Multicultural Poems Happy Nurses Day Poems 13 Silent Thoughts 9 Poems for Volunteers 2 Fun with Limericks - how to make your own 2 Spooky Poems for Halloween 2 Happy Poems to Share Mark Twain Sayings School Day Poems 7 Poems for September 2 If only I could come to you, I surely will. She's trapped inside the prison walls We may seem to be hard when we . Every day I think of her. Touched by the poem? It was complicated, horrifying and exhausting. Its a beautiful tribute to the special bond between mothers and children. Hanna. Wonderful! I have been associated with a 100 beds hospital for quite a long time. at the end of the play summarizes what I think of my mom. Those bottles contained tea. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. Jama: What a gorgeous post! Now the poem is even more meaningful. The line in Samantha Reynolds poem I am the standing ovation I went and opened her chest containing some old artifacts and took out the one picture that she would always see before she slept. I sit beside the fire and think I traveled, married, and worked long hours until I lost my health. If not for Lindas poem, our paths might never have crossed. Maybe one of these poems has touched your heart or even inspired you to write an original poem of your own. Please convey my all appreciations to the poet for writing such a meaningful and purposeful poem. I have tears in my eyes as I read your post, Jama! And seeing such pictures also helps build empathy and compassion. I can almost hear her crying out these words. So I think I should try to enjoy it. Just remember that I need you,That the best of me is gone.Please dont fail to stand beside me, Love me til my life is done. You know youve become a senior citizen when: You hear more fromthe AARPthan your own family.Your body makes more snaps, crackles, and pops than a bowl of Rice Krispies.Instead of tasting the Skittles rainbow, you swallow a rainbow of medications every day.Your refrigerator now contains more cans of Ensure than beer.You cant remember where you left your car keys, but then remember you no longer own a car. We had one child, our precious son. Treat me with respect, the same I'd give to you. As I do at your bidding, as I eat at your will. Don't try to make me understand. The following positive quotes for the elderly show them that you care. 16. You inspire me to keep writing myself. What's happening to your wondrous mind, It was fueled not only by two poems I love, but also hearing about those (some elected officials), who feel older people should be sacrificed for the economy. She had lost her legs from above the knee down which made . One day my dad was hunting, from his favorite hunting stand; In a dusty, dark corner of a very old house. Our operating costs are covered by advertising, online store sales, participating providers, and senior care partners. Very nicely described and also the way it became funny was absolutely fantastic. I have waited quite a long time to get old. Still, its especially tough to be isolated and not be able to socialize with other residents or visitors. But a little chocolate now and then doesn't hurt! When I was a child, my home was a nursing home run by my parents. But it can also be one of the most rewarding and moving experiences that will stay with us for the rest of our lives. Thanks so much to the poets for giving permission to share their work. Every afternoon at two-fifteen they come, Makes my blood boil. My belly hurts, I haven't pooped, I hope I'm not impacted. A worker barges in my room, As if it's no big deal. 20. Is that what you're thinking? Do you have some pictures or graphics to add? Later, when You guided me when I needed help.You reprimanded me when I needed discipline.You comforted my heart when it was broken,You rejoiced with me when I found success.You were there for me in moments big and small. . We think they make especially good decorations for elderly individuals in nursing homes looking for uplifting inspiration with some colorful imagery to adorn their walls! Potato Head Kit, Wonder Bread, Sugar Pops and references to many other iconic foods advertised on TV. I said "Hi Dad!" and the woman jumped up, gave a loud screech and ran off. Click the button and find the first one on your computer. Those bears! What do we see, you ask, what do we see? KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO. Loved it, of course. All rights reserved. The poems are beautiful. And I think of the years and the love that I've known. Work Poems Happy Birthday, Daisy!! When old age arrives, we are often unprepared. At fifty once more, babies play round my knee, 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. 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. Thanks for joining the celebration, Kathy. aside without looking at the young soul within We will one day be there, too! I can imagine my folks and grandparents in these scenes. And she would show me her picture when she was a young adult. That is when the tears fell. Published by Family Friend Poems September 2014 with permission of the author. Im loved, respected and not alone. Do you have some pictures or graphics to add? When an elder speaks to you, try to focus and listen,Theres often wisdom in those words that you just might be missing. Sadly, it won't be quite the celebration we'd always planned. It wasnt even listed on his chart that he was given this drug on that last day. Goes to show that we all leave "SOME footprints in time".. An Old Lady's Poem May they know the importance. And now and again my battered heart swells. They have had sorrow and they have had joy. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RopKTL3fnDk. Is that what you see? the celebration! I press my light to see a face, Or just for company. Annoying to everyone,Stingiest person that ever lived,Some kind of jerk,Post-funeral celebration to be held at the union hall. No flowers. Check out this collection of funny poems for seniors. and beauty of their job. Hope you know you're loved this Valentine's Day! Wow! And shes given us a poet! Choose happy and eat chocolate Suggested General Messages Wishing you weeks worth of smiles! Ill definitely look for more of their poems. I'm so embarrassed, and ashamed, that I'm doing this at eighty. Bible Verses About Protecting The Environment, Bible Verses About Protecting The Innocent, Bible Verses About Protecting The Vulnerable, Bible Verses About Pretending To Be Someone Else, Bible Verses About Proclaiming The Word Of God, Bible Verses About Praying For Lost Souls, Bible Verses About Premarital Relationships, Bible Verses About Practicing What You Preach, Bible Verses About Praising God In Hard Times, Bible Verses About Praising God With Music, Bible Verses About Poverty And Homelessness, Bible Verses About Power In The Name Of Jesus, Bible Verses About Practice Makes Perfect, Bible Verses About Plagues In The Last Days KJV, Bible Verses About Plagues In The Last Days, Bible Verses About Physical Pain And Healing. Click to share on Twitter (Opens in new window), Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window), Click to email a link to a friend (Opens in new window), Click to share on Tumblr (Opens in new window), Click to share on Pinterest (Opens in new window), Click to share on Reddit (Opens in new window), Click to share on LinkedIn (Opens in new window), Click to share on Skype (Opens in new window), Click to share on WhatsApp (Opens in new window), honoring our elderly with a pair of poems (+ a specialbirthday! ), Michelle Kogan Art, Illustration, & Writing, An Easter Tale (Mr Cornelius and His Checkmates), Bob Dylan's 74th Birthday Celebration (with meatballs), Christmas Tea with Madeline, Anne and Eloise, Interview with Little House Actor Sidney Greenbush, Secret Garden: Yorkshire Culinary Delights, Three Course Celebration of Colin Firth's 54th Birthday, Two Recipes from The Tasha Tudor Family Cookbook, Two Susan Branch books + Potato Chip Cookies. 1. Published by Family Friend Poems March 2020 with permission of the author. Dark days are upon me, my husband is dead; I look at the future, I shudder with dread. Youre the first person Ive met who lived in a nursing home when she was a child you must have some pretty interesting perspectives about caregiving. I'm now an old woman and nature is cruel; The young help to care for the old. Why should you trust Family Friend Poems? Now she returns with a tightly focused collection that never veers away from its subject matter: the inner-workings of a nursing home. If you have a relative or friend who is elderly, then read on for a free printable poem for the elderly. I have so many old and new memories this post evoked. Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. It urges us to reach out to our elders and help them with anything they need. This poem reminds me of my great grandmother when I was only 7 years old. Linda Crosfieldlives in Ootischenia, at the confluence of the Columbia and Kootenay Rivers in South East British Columbia where she writes poetry and produces handmade books and chapbooks through her micro-press, Nose in Book Publishing. Lindas poem reminded me of another LindaLinda Pastan in its approach to the beauty of whats common. Share your story! What do you see, nurses, what do you see? https://www.guide-to-elder-care.com/tmp/thumb_image.jpg, In The DrawerI found a folded handkerchief It was frustrating for me to work with people who didn't care about the patients' feelings and seemed to forget that they were people just like us, with all the same needs. into good sense, you think I am waiting to die know my ears today Getting older may not be easy, but some funny poems about being a senior citizen can help youfind some humorin the situation. Only A CNA? The Hands of Strangers 19. And as for paying my taxes,Well that goes right out the door.Whos gonna come after a senile seniorWhose fixed income leaves him poor? Everything about this post is precious. These blues are real and that's what makes them so depressing. This poem has hit home. And eat PIE. Im also starting Elton Johns autobiography as well as Carly Simons new book. I know he can hear because he jumps at loud noises. When will they learn? After being on a library wait list for two years, I finally got to read it. Lots of backs. Her when she was an adult and an unknown man standing beside her. Theres much to be said, especially in tough, unpredictable times, about treating each slow dance as your last. Think of your familys eldersAs the roots of yourfamily tree.They created a strong foundationFor the fruits that were yet to be. Her work appears in several literary magazines and anthologies. Said the little old man, I do that too. I always respected my residents and my private clients and demanded that everyone else did. I was asked by a member of staff why I came every day, when she 'didn't even know what day it was'. by folk whose paths might not have crossed before. Im speechless and deeply moved. Its a reminder that we should cherish our memories and hold onto them tightly. Wow. Please click on my Home Page to go to other helpful links on Eldercare. Restful sleep has proved elusive. Its a slow dance, led by invisible partners. Blessed are they who Let us visit again , Someone's caregiver ! 5. 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. Sometimes he loses control over his bladder and wets the bed. I volunteer at a hospital, so I work and see a lot of these patients. Your email address will not be published. Visit bentlily for more. Where the residents such as dementia and Alzheimers sufferers, inNursing homes,Elderly Care Facilities,Retirement Communitiesare not able to read the poems by themselves, a facilitator or presenter is needed. I was also astounded by the collection of lovely painting on you post and the poetry and bios. A stranger looking back at me. The poems span fifty years of American history and cultural landmarks that elderly Americans will remember, have associations with and opinions about. . (3). I'm sorry I couldn't hold it, I didn't know what to do. If youre looking for more uplifting content, check out our other articles on positivity and motivation. When I Am Old I Shall Wear Purple by Jenny Joseph: This fun poem looks at all the things an old person can get away with that a young person couldnt, like wearing outrageous clothes and saying whatever they want. I watch my fake teethSwimming in a glass as theySilently judge me. Grandfathers, grandmothers, fathers, and mothers distributed to every nurse in the hospital. As I continued to read, I couldn't help it but shed a tear. Dear Angie, The fabric so old, like tissue, Published by Family Friend Poems December 2018 with permission of the author. The culture of caregiving is no exception. It begins the moment we are born. Published by Family Friend Poems October 2019 with permission of the author. It conveys the message so realistically to all the nursing and other para-medical staff to be compassionate while looking after the patients under their care. How to Prosper as a Private Hire Caregiver. 15. What ever happened to courtesy? On a first read-through, it is alright and delightful to stop at the end of a verse for some discussion if the verse triggers a memory for the reader or another resident. Of the mostly forgotten many Take her a cupcake and check out the full menu of poetic goodness being shared around the blogosphere this week. Beautiful poems and paintings, Jama! It may help their caregiver make it through one more day. I must point her to this post so she can remember to celebrate those she works for. Thanks for climbing aboard todays roller coaster, Joyce. . What a surprise to get to the end of your amazing post and discover I won the Ghinga book! There are various accounts as to the origin of the following poem. Too Slow for those who Wait, When my tea was spilled at the table today. at the end of the play, I am the hours ListenSo you've heard the story several times before Mr Cornelius says so. Sung to the tune ofThe Sound of Silenceby Simon & Garfunkel. Thanks for that link love those doorways to the imagination!! Pretty little high heels, Brown spots from years that she can't erase. Poems can be used in the same way as a Readers Theatre play script in a senior residence setting. Let me rest and know you're with me. Do not lose your patience with me.Do not scold or curse or cry.I cant help the way Im acting.Cant be different though I try. I always tried to make them feel special in every way that I could. Do you think I'm just a vegetable, Laying here like a rock? Little old me though that the world back then was black and white. 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 -Subhash Bansal, Hi! This is what my daughter wrote I am very proud of her, love daddy. Think of all the history thats lostWhen a family elder passes.Those precious stories shared of oldCrumble into irretrievable ashes. I will be 60 on my next birthday and it seems like years fly by like days. 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 would give it to her. You have spent your whole life sharing and giving love. I really hate to say it,But mymemorys starting to go.Im occasionally forgetting names,And other things I used to know. Celebrations and beautiful moments of joy and happiness are what I wish for you on the occasion of Valentine's Day. Yet, we feel irritated at the drooling and weak-ears of the elderly. Yes, you cant take your eyes off the bears for a minute! JUST KEEP IN MIND AND DON'T FORGET, THAT I'M A PERSON TOO. I just use a walking stick to seem stately and tall. You walked past my light, what am I to do? with a cheery smile My mother was in a nursing home due to dementia during the last 6 yrs. Those guys are adorable too. 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). You can find some funny poems to senior citizens here. Late Fragment by Raymond Carver: Written by a man dying of cancer in his 50s, this poignant poem is a heartbreaking reminder that life can end, so its important to live every day to its fullest. Copyright 2020 Jama Rattigan of Jamas Alphabet Soup. the nurses were going through her meager possessions, they found this poem. Glad you enjoyed the poems and art, Karen. Advice to My Son by Patrick Kavanagh: This poem is a letter from a father to his son, giving him advice on living his life. 20. Some of them are dropped off and no one ever comes back. This poem brought me to tears. Thanks to a post by JessieBelle, one of our AgingCare Caregiver Forum members, we recently came across one of these legends in the form of this poem. Please help yourself to some marble cake, dark chocolate pretzels, lemon, oat, and chocolate chip cookies, and of course, a warm cup of Orange Pekoe. Brought me to tears. Ronald Doe, Meaningful Poems Thanks. No hugs. Would love to read some of your experiences. 10. So lovely, to touch hearts. They enjoy this ritual No text to follow, no page marking needed. I Spent 21 years as an CNA. and that way, winding. My resounding answer was always with dignity, love, and compassion. Emerson urges us to embrace getting older instead of trying to fight it. backs hunched against the unkindness of time, She couldn't talk or move much, but she was lively as I can remember. Although the hands of the elderly may not beSmooth, supple, and unblemished,They have a beauty all their own.Each line, each spot, each scarHas its own tale to tell.Some are tales of tragedy, others are tales of triumph,But they all combine to tell the unique storyOf that treasured persons life.So the next time youre with an elder,Gently take that persons hands within your own,And look with wonder at a life truly lived. Here I lie in bed again, Awaiting my next meal. Oh and my tears morphed into tears of laughter with the final images of Mr Cornelius and his furry friends hitting the bottles. I would've loved to hear your mom tell the story about her special day in 1952! Touched by the poem? It encourages us to look at all aspects of life with gratitude instead of regret or fear. All other content on this website is Copyright 2006-2023 FFP Inc. All rights reserved. by Internet. About the Poem. Her writing has been published in Canada, New Zealand, the U.K. and the U.S.A. Would you prefer to share this page with others by linking to it? Published by Family Friend Poems December 2010 with permission of the author. There are many poemsabout elder care and/or the elderly. Above all, never hesitate to thank the elderly for all the good things theyve done and the sacrifices theyve made. 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.