For the past ten years, Tzu Chi volunteers have worked ceaselessly to provide the residents of these nursing homes with both spiritual and physical support. Based on compassion and joyous giving, the volunteers exercise the spirit of "When others hurt I feel their pain and when others suffer I feel their sorrow" and the principle of "Respect life and care for the community" taught by Master Cheng Yen. Every week they schedule regular visits at local convalescent homes, including Winchester, Sun Bridge, Milpitas, and the newly added Valley House, San Thomas Convalescent Hospital, and West Valley Rehibilitation Center in Los Gatos. Apart from consoling patients and keeping lonely seniors company, the volunteers also help them apply for assistance funds, and on special holidays they organize celebrations for the residents to enjoy. In addition to bringing the old folks warmth and joy, the sense of compassion of new volunteers is triggered while the spiritual cultivation of seasoned volunteers is further strengthened.

Each year, apart from the increase in the number of adult volunteers, there is also a rise in the number of participating Tzu Chi children. Through the innocent and vivacious nature of these kids, laughter and joy return to ailing patients and lonely seniors residing in convalescent homes. At the same time, through their experiences during these visits, the children gain an appreciation for the warmth of the family, as well as an understanding of the importance of filial piety.

Tzu Chi volunteers visit a loving couple. The husband was partially paralyzed by a stroke, and the wife injured her back while trying to care for him.

Tzu Chi sisters gently console residents of convalescent homes. What lonely old folks need most is friends who will listen to them while they pour out their feelings.