On the first Saturday of every month, while most highschoolers will be catching up on sleep or homework, Senior Anna Kang is volunteering at a local nursing home. As a dedicated member of GlamourGals, a national nonprofit that connects teens with elderly women, she spends her mornings glamming up the senior residents.

     Kang first heard about the group when she was merely a sophomore. She quickly found herself drawn to the idea of giving back to the community. After many months of volunteering, she came to realize that it’s not really about the makeup, but instead, “it’s about the connection. I love sitting down with the seniors and listening to their lives.” she said. While it’s always an eye opening experience listening to residents talk about their past, some senior citizens are really opinionated. Kang jokingly added, “Once, someone even asked to see my makeup license.”

     Now, as president of the Glen Rock chapter, Kang leads a small team of volunteers, typically 4 or 5 girls per visit. They spend a few hours painting nails, giving light makeovers, and most importantly, talking to residents in the home. “They’re always looking out for you” she said, “Seniors are never wishing for your downfall but they truly wish the best for you.”

     One of Kang’s most memorable experiences involved a senior who had an unexpected music request, asking to play Pitbull and club music while doing her nails. At first, the request seemed out of place for a modest nursing home but soon turned into a lighthearted and memorable visit. This moment was a heartwarming reminder that fun can last a lifetime, no matter your age.

     For many seniors, their retirement years can feel lonely. With children out of the house starting their own families and careers, many don’t see their families often. According to AARP, which has a readership median age of 64, one in three adults in this age group feel secluded.  Loneliness not only affects people’s mental state, but can even lead to heart disease, strokes, and premature death due to lack of social bonds. 

     While seniors benefit from volunteer visitors, younger generations gain valuable knowledge, life lessons, and the opportunity to give back. Aging is a privilege not everyone gets to experience, and having access to living history is something every generation should appreciate.