Their Laughter Is What Inspires Me
Chinle, AZ
Every day I spend with our elders reminds me why I love what I do. What inspires me the most is hearing their laughter and knowing that, even if it’s only for a little while, I helped brighten their day. There is nothing more rewarding than seeing someone smile, laugh, and forget their worries, even for a moment.
Making a positive difference in the lives of our elders and individuals with disabilities means everything to me. I believe respect, love, and compassion are at the heart of caregiving. When people feel seen, valued, and genuinely cared for, it shows. You can see it in the way they smile, the way they open up, and the joy they carry with them throughout the day.
Every day I try to create activities that support their physical, mental, and social well-being. My goal is to help them stay active, engaged, and excited about life. It isn’t about simply filling the day with activities, it’s about helping them continue doing the things that keep their bodies strong, their minds sharp, and their spirits lifted.
One activity they especially enjoy is kickball. It’s more than just a game. It helps strengthen their core, improve their balance, and keep their muscles moving while bringing everyone together. We also play table ball, which builds upper body strength and coordination, and we spend time doing arts and crafts that keep their hands active while allowing them to express their creativity.
But if you ask them what they look forward to most, they’ll almost always smile and say, “Bingo.”
Bingo is so much more than a game. It’s a chance to laugh together, visit with friends, tell stories, and enjoy each other’s company. It keeps their minds active, encourages conversation, and gives everyone something exciting to look forward to each week. And of course, they absolutely love winning prizes.
One of the biggest challenges I face is helping our residents believe in themselves again. Sometimes they think they’re no longer able to do the things they once could, but I remind them that every little movement matters. Staying active helps them maintain their independence, improve their health, and continue enjoying life. Even the smallest accomplishments deserve to be celebrated because every step forward is meaningful.
I also believe it’s important for our elders to know they are never alone. There are resources available to help them, and sometimes all they need is someone who believes in them, encourages them, and helps point them in the right direction.
I try to bring kindness, patience, enthusiasm, and encouragement into everything I do. Celebrating every success, no matter how small, helps build confidence and reminds each person that they are still capable, still important, and still have so much to offer.
This work has changed me just as much as I hope I’ve helped change the lives of those I care for. As I grow older myself, I realize I’m learning alongside them. They remind me every day to appreciate life, stay active, and never take time with the people we love for granted.
I truly believe my dedication, compassion, and love for our elders can make a difference. Seeing them smile, hearing their laughter echo through the room, and watching them enjoy each day is the greatest reward I could ever ask for. Their happiness is what inspires me to come back every single day.
— Angela Lewis, June 2026, Chinle Chapter, AZ
