Volunteering at the VA hospital in the Physical Therapy Department for the past 2 weeks, I have learned some valuable life lessons already. I would like to share those with you.
For 3 hours each week, I spend my time observing, fetching, delivering, questioning, assembling, commenting and most importantly listening. The client base at the VA hospital is mainly of the age of 75 plus and mostly men. These patients appreciate and value a pretty smile and a good listening ear. So seeing how I have both (thanks to my amazing orthodontist), I am a prime target for these nuggets of wisdom and truths.
Things I have learned at the VA:
- Old people aren’t as scary as I once thought them to be (caused by an unfortunate experience in junior high at the local nursing home).
- “Telemarketers are what is wrong with this country.”
- “Tucson used to be great 20 years ago until we ruined the environment.”
- “It doesn’t monsoon here the way it used too.”
- No matter how old men get, some still think it’s funny to do an impression of what I imagine their idea of a gay man is…not at all flattering for anyone.
- “Always remember to bring your keys with you when the ambulance comes to get you.”
- Old men will fall asleep anywhere, doing anything.
- No matter the age, old men will try harder if there is a pretty girl standing next to them, cheering them on.
- Apparently, it is ok to only change your clothes once per week and it is ok to sleep in the same thing you have worn during the day…it’s called “energy conservation”.
- Old men should always wear a belt…no exceptions!
I got this plethora of information in only 6 hours of volunteering. I can’t wait to see what I learn next week!
Carla
Filed under: New Normal
Ha! I must agree with #2 and especially #10
Hahahaha! That’s awesome.
I’ve got to make a correction:
8. No matter the age, ALL men will try harder if there is a pretty girl standing next to them, cheering them on.