The impact of chaplaincy in senior living is considerable, especially for those looking for a faith-based retirement community that allows them to continue their spiritual or religious journey. Many seniors, religious or not, can feel apprehensive towards the end, and a chaplain can be there for moral support and guidance or simply be there to talk about God and what to expect in their remaining days.
At Calder Woods, our senior living community features independent and assisted living programs that include full chaplaincy services. Our chaplain works closely with each resident to create a sense of belonging and make the adjustment to living in a senior community easier. You can participate in religious ceremonies or sit with like-minded seniors to have a religious or philosophical debate within the community.
To learn more about our senior chaplaincy program and how it can benefit your retirement, call 409.407.7636 today to schedule a tour and meet our chaplain and other staff.
What Is a Chaplain?
A chaplain is a certified clergy member who works in a non-religious environment, such as a school, military organization, community center, or senior living community. They are ordained ministers and can perform religious ceremonies, give last rites, and offer spiritual advice to seniors and their families.
In a senior living community, a chaplain takes on a variety of duties. These can include:
- Spiritual care and guidance to residents and staff
- Provide counseling and emotional support to resident and their families
- Participate in spiritual or religious crisis interventions
- Perform end-of-life services
- Help build a sense of community in all residents
- Works as an advocate for residents
- Offers ethical consultations
Chaplains can have a big impact on the well-being of seniors when they first move into a senior living community and as they come to terms with the inevitable. This can be a very difficult and frightening time for some seniors. It is the chaplain’s responsibility to help them adjust to life in the senior living community, meet other like-minded residents, and build a stronger spiritual and community connection.
At Calder Woods, we understand the impact chaplaincy in senior living has on our residents and work hard to create faith-based care programs that meet all of their needs. Our chaplain helps seniors transition to the community and be there to lead prayers, perform ceremonies, or simply have a religious conversation.
The Impact of Chaplaincy in Senior Living
Adjusting to a new home can be difficult, especially for seniors who prefer to live independently. Chaplains can make the adjustment to life in a senior community much more enjoyable and introduce them to other residents who share their faith.
The following are some examples of the impact of Chaplaincy on senior living:
- Moral and ethical guidance – Chaplains ensure residents’ medical and therapeutic needs are met while being mindful of their values and beliefs. This can go a long way toward helping seniors feel heard and respected, which can ease tension, stress, and anxiety.
- Fosters inclusivity – Chaplains work with all people of faith and help residents who believe differently to understand and accept other people’s beliefs. They incorporate interfaith activities and dialogues that bring everyone together.
- Improving quality of life – One of the biggest impacts of senior living chaplaincy is on their quality of life. Seniors can participate in religious ceremonies, discussions, and other spiritual activities, all within the comfort of the community.
- End-of-life care – Chaplains can support residents and their families during the final days. They can pass along any final messages, comfort family members, perform last rites and funeral services, and make sure all of the resident’s requests are met.
These are just a few of the senior living chaplaincy services that you can expect when working with a chaplain. They can help seniors of all faiths develop a deeper spiritual connection and be at peace with their situation.
Visit Calder Woods Today to Learn More About Our Senior Chaplaincy Program
Calder Woods is a fully accredited senior living community that welcomes Texas seniors who are looking for a fulfilling retirement surrounded by their friends, peers, and quality medical care. Our faith-based programs allow residents to continue their religious practice and find comfort in the words of God.
To learn more about the benefits of chaplaincy in senior living, use our online contact form or call 409.407.7636 today to schedule a consultation.