Volunteer Helps Seniors ‘Walk Down Memory Lane’

CAMP HILL, Pa. - April 14, 2014 - PRLog -- Darlene Wirt-Hillegas has a story tell. Actually, the retired teacher and librarian has plenty of stories to share with residents and staff at The Woods at Cedar Run, a senior living and memory care community in Camp Hill.

     Wirt-Hillegas is among a group of dedicated volunteers at The Woods. Those volunteers’ contributions have a tremendous impact on a daily basis. Their efforts take on added significance throughout April, which is National Volunteer Month, and The Woods will honor its volunteers during a luncheon on April 30.

     Volunteers tackle everyday tasks, activities and routines, yet they often create special moments for the residents in doing so. Wirt-Hillegas provides an excellent example.

     Every Tuesday during the past five years, she’s told stories that inspire and encourage the residents who gather to listen. Her weekly presentation is entitled, “Darlene Reminisces: A Walk Down Memory Lane.” Wirt-Hillegas’ goal is to assist each resident to “rediscover the memories of the past” that bring them comfort and familiarity.

     She also assists the Activity Department during the holidays by participating in old-fashioned art projects to decorate the residents’ apartment doors. One of the most anticipated annual events is when Wirt-Hillegas shares her Storybook Doll Collection with the residents.

     “Volunteers such as Darlene truly play a significant role in the lives of our residents and staff,” said Julie Seifried, Activities Director at The Woods at Cedar Run and IntegraCare’s Regional Memory Care Program Coordinator. “The residents enthusiastically await the weekly ‘Walk Down Memory Lane.’”

     “I am fortunate to have the opportunity make new friends, meet interesting people and to hear the amazing stories of the residents’ lives,” Wirt-Hillegas said of her role at The Woods. “If my luck holds out, I will be able to continue sharing good stories and hearing those of others for many years to come.”

     Wirt-Hillegas has emerged as a favorite visitor to the 25 residents who regularly hear her stories.

     “Darlene is such a special part of our community,” Seifried said.

     Wirt-Hillegas retired in 1999 after a year of teaching third grade and 31 years as an elementary school librarian. At about the same time, her father died, and Wirt-Hillegas, her four brothers and two sisters helped their mother move into a senior community. Soon after, Wirt-Hillegas began working part-time at that community.

    She eventually accompanied her mother during a move to another facility. In addition to her regular duties, Wirt-Hillegas’ showed her talent as a storyteller who could connect with the residents.

     When she stopped working in 2009, Wirt-Hillegas wanted to find a community where she could volunteer.

     “Darlene called The Woods, because it is near her home, and a friend she had made at the previous facility had moved into the new Memory Care Neighborhood,” Seifried said. “She spoke with The Woods and explained that she would like to share her love of storytelling with the residents. And, the rest is history.”