The nursing home is not an attractive place, at least not inside.  It resembles a hospital, which it is in a way, rather than an apartment building or a condo.  Rooms are utilitarian, filled with medical equipment and few creature comforts.  There are odors not quite hidden by air fresheners.  
    Some of the elderly wander around on their own, but most need help from a nurses aide.  There never seem to be enough staff for everyone.  
    Only a few have visitors today.  Some wait for relatives that never show.

waiting for a visit
from his dead sister -
perhaps tonight

    A therapy dog arrives with her owner to visit with the lonely patients.  She brings out smiles where there were none before.  AN old man who is usually rather grumpy, pats her and talks to her in a quiet, soothing voice.  He refers to her by the name of his old dog.  She doesn't seem to notice.

petting a dog -
awakening
the past

    In the common room, their meal is over and they settle down for to an evening of watching television, playing games, or reading.  One old woman with failing eyesight picks up a children's illustrated book.  She can no longer read the words, but she enjoys the pictures.

bright colors -
a gleam
in old eyes

    The dog and her owner are leaving now.  The dog is still wagging her tail.  None of it depresses her.  She has made new friends.  I wonder, when the dog is old and senile, will anyone visit her?

My first attempt at Haibun.  I hope I haven't messed it up too badly.