Partner Spotlight: How NALTCV Volunteers Foster Connection And Make a Difference

We’re thrilled to feature Dr. Paul P. Falkowski, founder and president of the National Association of Long-Term Care Volunteers (NALTCV). Through innovative volunteer programs and a deep commitment to improving the lives of those in long-term care communities, NALTCV is making a meaningful impact on connection, quality of care, and quality of life. Join us as Dr. Falkowski shares the story behind this inspiring organization, tips for caregivers, and insights on how Eleplan supports their mission.

Great to meet you! Tell us a bit about your organization and what it does. 

The NALTCV was created to support those who manage volunteers in long-term care communities and to promote the role of volunteers in these settings. We provide online training for prospective volunteers and valuable resources for the individuals responsible for managing them. Additionally, we collaborate with programs serving people in long-term care communities and connect NALTCV volunteers with opportunities to enhance their skills. Finally, we conduct research to explore and demonstrate the impact of volunteers on the quality of care and quality of life in long-term care.

Why do you do what you do? Tell us why you got involved with your organization.

My bachelor's degree is in music performance. Someone once suggested I take my saxophone to a nursing home, and the rest is history. I was deeply moved by what I saw and heard from both the staff and the people living there. That experience inspired me to form a nonprofit dedicated to recruiting and training volunteers to serve as companions for those who have no family or friends visiting them.

During the pandemic, most of us experienced firsthand the effects of isolation and loneliness. For people living in nursing homes, this isn’t just a temporary experience—it’s an everyday reality. Nearly half of the people in these communities do not receive regular visits. As a result, they are twice as likely to die within the same period as those who do.

I’ve witnessed the incredible, positive impact that volunteers can have, not only on the people living in nursing homes but also on the staff who care for them. Every human being needs three things:

1. A sense of autonomy (I have control over my life)
2. A sense of mastery (I can do things for myself)
3. A sense of connectedness (I have friends and family)

When even one of these is missing, it has a profound impact on a person’s well-being. That’s why I do what I do—to help restore a vital sense of connection and purpose to those who need it most.

How can others get involved with your organization?

Visit our website. If you are someone looking for a purposeful way to give back to your community click on ‘For Volunteers’. If you are working in a long-term care community, click on ‘For Communities’. Or email me: pfalkowski@naltcv.org with your questions and comments.

How do you think Eleplan benefits people in your organization?

By centralizing communication and providing easy access to resources, Eleplan helps foster collaboration and consistency, which ultimately supports our mission to enhance the quality of life for people in long-term care.

Navigating care can be challenging. What's your number one tip for caregivers looking for support or resources?

Don’t navigate care alone—reach out and build a support network.

Caregivers often feel overwhelmed, but there are many organizations and individuals ready to help. Start by connecting with programs like NALTCV that focus on creating meaningful relationships and providing resources for emotional and social support. Companion volunteers, for example, can make a significant difference by offering friendship and helping to alleviate feelings of isolation.

Additionally, don't hesitate to ask questions and advocate for yourself and your loved one. Whether it's seeking advice from trusted professionals, joining support groups, or utilizing training programs to strengthen your caregiving skills, help is out there—you don’t have to do this alone.

Is there any other advice you have for the Eleplan community?

Absolutely! For the Eleplan community, here’s some additional advice:

• Focus on Connection: Beyond logistics and care coordination, prioritize building authentic connections with the people you're caring for. Relationships are a powerful antidote to loneliness and can have a profound impact on emotional and physical well-being.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Caregiving is challenging, but taking time to recognize small moments of joy or progress can help maintain a positive outlook.
• Leverage Available Resources: Tools like Eleplan simplify care coordination, but also look for community-based resources, such as volunteer organizations like NALTCV, local support groups, or training programs to complement your efforts.
• Practice Self-Care: You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritize your well-being by taking breaks, asking for help, and setting boundaries when needed.
• Advocate for Innovations: Share ideas, feedback, and needs with the Eleplan community to help shape tools and resources that better support caregivers like yourself.

Caregiving is a journey, and the Eleplan community provides a valuable platform to share experiences, learn from others, and grow together.

Eleplan: Caregiving Made Simple.