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Can I volunteer at a nursing home facility in high school?

I'm in 12th grade trying to get more experience in the healthcare world. I would love to volunteer in the healthcare field ! I adore the profession and would enjoy being involved in this field.

healthcare experience volunteer hands-on home-care-nursing
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Carmen’s Answer

As you've heard from others on this thread: yes! You can volunteer at a nursing home while you're in high school. My sister did this in high school and loved it! The residents of the nursing home loved it, too. You'll find that the staff in many nursing homes are challenged by staffing ratios and high workload, so the residents really appreciated someone who had the time to talk and help with little things. My sister, who has since gone on to be a nurse, did social events with the residents, did fetch-and-carry tasks, and visited, all of which were appreciated by staff, residents and their family members. The Red Cross also takes high-school volunteers for various roles in our hospital; it may be another option to explore in your area.
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Sarah’s Answer

Volunteering at a nursing home is a great start to better understand the medical and healthcare industry as well as the aging population, chronic health issues, and to help people. Most places you have to be at least 14 or 15 with parental permission. Additionally, there are many hospitals that are always looking for volunteers to help if you want to broaden your scope after volunteering at a nursing home.
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Martin’s Answer

That is a great idea and will offer you and the residents of the facility and excellent opportunity. It will help open up some insight, and as well as something to add to your future endeavors.
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Omkari’s Answer

Yes, you can at a nursing home facility in high school, and also at other nursing facilities near you.
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Catherine’s Answer

Volunteering for a nursing home is completely doable. Speak with the Director of Nursing, they should be able to give you the information you need. It's possible that you will have a few facilities say no before you find your yes, but don't give up. Senior citizens love talking to and spending time with the younger generation. I have spent a lot of time in different facilities and I can tell you first hand that it is so much fun to talk to them and hear their stories. Good luck on your search!
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Karl’s Answer

Hello Sariah,

Great question and happy to hear you’re looking to get involved in the field.

To answer your question, in general you need to be at least 14 or 16 years old (depending on the nursing home). Secondly, if you’re younger than 18 years old then you’ll need to get your a parent or guardian’s consent/permission. Lastly, you may need to pass a background check or health screening.

Here are a few nursing homes in your area, I would recommend calling or visiting them to see if they have any other requirements for you to volunteer there.

Helen Hayes Hospital (West Haverstraw, NY)

Northern Riverview Health Care Center (Haverstraw, NY)

Hope this helps. Please feel free to let me know if you need clarification on anything or have more questions.

Make it a great day.
Karl
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Kathleen’s Answer

Hi, Sarah
It's quite likely you can volunteer in nursing homes or rehab facilities. You can contact some in your area and ask!
Good luck,
Kathie
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Dianna’s Answer

It depends on the state and city. Most of the time you can, there’s just a few legal documents that need to be signed by you, your parents if you’re under 18, and some times your school. I would ask your local locations a lot of questions to see which ones suit you best. Also, the more questions you ask, the more memorable you will be to be considered for hire. If the person seems annoyed with any questions then it’s not a good, or healthy place to work.
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Karen’s Answer

Wonderful to see you have such a valuable goal in mind. I'm sure you can find a place where they will be thrilled to have your help. Contact a variety of nursing homes and/or living assisted centers. If you can't work directly in health-related services, you could gain some good experience simply spending time with those who are living there whether reading to them or simply visiting.

With every good wish and many blessings!
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Dr’s Answer

Hey Sariah, volunteering at a nursing home while you're in high school is a fantastic idea! A total head start too if I should say 🥰. Many nursing homes welcome high school volunteers, especially those who are passionate about healthcare. It’s a great way to gain hands-on experience, learn about patient care, and see the real impact of compassion in the medical field. Just be prepared for some paperwork, background checks, and maybe a bit of training. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your local nursing homes or hospitals—they usually have programs in place for teens like you. Keep that enthusiasm shining—you’re on a cool path, and your energy is going to make a difference! 😊
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