Why We Do It

“And now, in my old age, don’t set me aside.

Don’t forsake me now when my strength is failing.” – Psalm 71:9

According to the National Center for Health Statistics, more than 50% of nursing home residents have no close relatives.*1

An estimated 60% of nursing home residents never have any visitors. *1

According to the Center for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), 49% of those in long-term care facilities have a diagnosis of depression.*2

According to the CDC, 27% of all Americans will die in long-term care facilities.*3

“The most terrible poverty is loneliness, the feeling of being unloved.” –Mother Theresa

In 15,600 American nursing homes, 1.3 million widows/widowers—many orphaned by society—are lonely, isolated, and dying alone.

Across 113,000 US churches, many of the 90-100 million professing Christians have an opportunity to “follow Jesus” outside the church walls, to take His love to those who can’t get to church—widows, orphans, homeless and prisoners.

Many senior home residents may be viewed as all four—widows/widowers, orphaned by society, in an institutional setting vs. home, and unable to leave on their own.

Jesus tells us very clearly of a beautiful mystery—when we come bring Jesus’ care to lonely elderly, in addition to making new friends, we are seeing and loving Him.

“I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me…. Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” –Matthew 25: 35-40

Our Mission

They Need Encouragement

The elderly often require encouragement as they face unique challenges and transitions that come with aging. This period of life can bring about significant changes, such as retirement, loss of loved ones, declining health, and reduced physical mobility, which can lead to feelings of isolation, uselessness, and anxiety.

Encouragement can play a crucial role in uplifting their spirits and helping them find joy and purpose in their later years.

Positive reinforcement and support from family, friends, and caregivers can boost their self-esteem, foster a sense of belonging and community, and enable them to continue engaging in activities they enjoy.

This emotional support is vital for their mental well-being, helping them maintain a positive outlook on life and feel valued and respected despite the challenges they may face.

They Need Interaction

Interaction is essential for the elderly as it significantly contributes to their overall well-being and quality of life. Regular social interaction helps combat loneliness and depression, which are common among seniors due to factors like the loss of a spouse, friends, or reduced mobility.

Engaging with others, whether through family visits, community events, or social groups, stimulates mental activity, which is crucial for maintaining cognitive functions and can delay the onset of dementia-related symptoms.

Furthermore, social interactions often encourage physical activity and healthier lifestyles, as seniors are more likely to participate in group exercises or outdoor activities. Importantly, feeling connected and part of a community enhances their sense of belonging and self-worth, reinforcing their value in society and providing them with emotional support and a sense of security.

“I made the widow’s heart sing.” – Job 29:13

Our Mission

They Need Love

Loving care is fundamental for the elderly as it profoundly impacts their physical, emotional, and mental health. As individuals age, they often face various challenges such as declining health, mobility issues, and the loss of independence, which can lead to feelings of vulnerability and isolation.

Providing loving care, characterized by compassion, patience, and understanding, ensures that the elderly feel respected, valued, and dignified. This type of care fosters a nurturing and safe environment, crucial for their well-being. It helps in alleviating stress, reducing the risk of depression, and promoting a positive outlook on life.

Moreover, loving care can lead to better health outcomes, as it encourages the elderly to engage in self-care practices and follow medical advice. In essence, loving care affirms their worth and contributes significantly to maintaining their quality of life during their twilight years.

They Need Hope

Hope is a vital element in the lives of the elderly, serving as a powerful tool in navigating the complexities and challenges of aging. As seniors face various transitions such as health decline, loss of loved ones, and changes in their social roles, hope provides a lens through which they can view these challenges with resilience and optimism. It encourages a forward-looking perspective, fostering the belief that life can still be fulfilling and meaningful despite age-related difficulties.

Hope also plays a crucial role in mental health, helping to combat feelings of despair and loneliness that often accompany aging. It can inspire the elderly to set new goals, engage in enjoyable activities, and maintain social connections, all of which are crucial for their overall well-being.

In essence, hope acts as a beacon, illuminating the later years of life with possibilities and positivity, and enabling seniors to approach their twilight years with dignity and a sense of purpose.

Will You Help Us Serve?

Can you be a LTW Advocate in your own church community? Invite us to come share at your Sunday School or Bible Study?

Can you be a LTW Ambassador and educate the church on this overlooked mission field? Share the vision where we are invited?

Can you be a LTW Volunteer and engage the elderly with love? And give someone a priceless gift—a last chance for eternity with God?