Remember Those in Nursing Homes
1. Why is there a need to reach those in nursing homes with the good news?
1 Many people are facing the debilitating effects of advancing age. (Eccl. 12:1-7) Some older deaf ones live in nursing homes, so it is a challenge for us to reach them with the good news. This is true even in lands where aging parents traditionally move in with their children or other relatives. Although perhaps limited in mobility or memory, elderly ones and others who live in nursing homes may still be able to learn about, appreciate, and come to love Jehovah. How can we reach out to share the good news of “the happy hope” with them?—Titus 2:13.
2. How can we compile a list of nursing-care facilities to visit?
2 Usually a list of nursing-care facilities can be compiled by searching the local telephone directory. Check categories such as “nursing homes,” “group homes,” and “residential-care facilities.” The service overseer can take the lead in arranging for qualified publishers to visit each facility. With good planning and reliance on Jehovah, it is often possible to start a Bible study.—Prov. 21:5; 1 John 5:14, 15.
3. How might we approach the receptionist?
3 When visiting a facility, it is best to approach the receptionist and ask if there are any deaf residents. If so, explain that you are volunteering your time to encourage deaf individuals who enjoy discussing Bible accounts using videos in sign language. A variety of publications can be used, but many find that My Book of Bible Stories—On DVD and The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived—On DVD are well received. You may wish to show the publications to the receptionist.
4. Why should we want to reach out to assist those in nursing homes?
4 The elderly are invited by Jehovah to praise him. (Ps. 148:12, 13) That invitation includes those in nursing homes. Are there nursing homes within your territory where elderly ones would benefit from hearing the good news? When we remember those of advancing years, we imitate Jehovah.—Ps. 71:9, 18.