There are many different reasons that members of your ward may be homebound. Usually they are health related. It could be that one person is homebound because they are caring for a spouse who is ill. The elderly may go through periods when they are homebound. It is important to realize that some people may be able to come to church on Sundays, but are still relatively homebound. If they have to give up their license, then they become dependent on others to go anywhere. It can be a difficult and trying time. Often homebound are lonely. They may feel isolated and frustrated with their situation. Here are five suggestions to reach out to these members.
1) If the member is not able to come to church at all due to health reasons, you can arrange to have the Sacrament brought into them each week. This visit allows the member to renew his covenants, and gives the young men a chance to serve and help others.
2) You may consider assigning extra visiting teachers to the sister. This can help to fight the loneliness. You may also consider asking a family to adopt the sister. They can call and check up on her, take her treats, and include her in family home evening activities on occasion.
3) Provide rides for those who can not drive as often as possible. It is important to make an effort to provide rides for all the activities and church meetings. Often people do not want to be a burden and so they are hesitant to ask for a ride. If you can arrange this ahead of time, they are less likely to feel that they are imposing.
4) If the homebound are capable of serving a calling, do not be hesitant to give them a calling. There are several callings, which can easily be done from home. Visiting teaching supervisor, temple attendance coordinator and ward newsletter editor are callings that quickly come to mind.
5) Keep the doors of communication open with those that are homebound. There may be times when you need to arrange to have meals brought in. You may also find that you need to find someone to sit with a spouse to give the caregiver a break. By listening and caring you will better be able to meet their needs.
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