Skip to page content
There are so many benefits to volunteering and keeping busy in your golden years, while making a difference and touching lives. Aging can potentially lead to some health problems and self-esteem issues, however, volunteering is a great way to focus on the positive, improve your sense of self worth, and feel happier. In fact, adding value and doing something good for others provides a sense of accomplishment and enhances the quality of life. It can even result in decreased anxiety and increased longevity, according to Generations Magazine.
We decided to share this article because we are hoping that you will experience the joy of spending your golden years volunteering and helping other people. After all, your post-work life still needs structure and purpose and without these two pillars, it can get pretty boring and lonely.
Here are a few reasons older adults should consider volunteering and focusing on others.
Staying connected to the community
Most people would probably agree that working provides a sense of connection to colleagues, customers or clients, businesses, and organizations. When older Americans retire, this crucial sense of belonging may get lost. Therefore, finding volunteering opportunities and giving back to the community can help restore and reignite that sense of connection.
Meeting new people
When it comes to volunteering your time and efforts, one thing is for sure: not only do you get to spend time doing something you love, something energizing, stimulating and rewarding, but you also get to interact with other people, collaborate with like-minded individuals and potentially help create a thriving local ecosystem. In other words, even at an older age, you can expand your social network, meet interesting people and make new friends. The opportunity is there; you might as well get the most of it.
Volunteering keeps you moving
We wrote quite a few articles in the past, stressing the importance of physical activity. It goes without saying that it will keep you healthier, stronger and more vibrant as you age. Therefore, when it comes to volunteering, you might end up arranging local events, serving meals, helping clean up your local parks, or accompanying someone for a walk. It will keep you moving and improve your physical health. As stated by Lifeline, regular movement not only helps you manage weight but also enhances heart health, circulation, and joint flexibility, reducing the risk of age-related ailments.
Education is an ongoing process
Volunteering offers a great opportunity to learn new things. Engaging with diverse communities allows older Americans to gain exposure to various cultures, perspectives, and viewpoints. For example, volunteering for a multicultural organization or participating in language exchange programs, will enable older adults to embrace other cultures, understand other nations, and learn more about foreign traditions. Additionally, some volunteer tasks may involve technology and present older adults with a unique opportunity to expand their technical knowledge beyond their comfort zones. What a great way to keep your mind sharp!
Tapping into opportunities
Now, is there any cause you are passionate about? And have you considered joining a not-for-profit organization or contributing to a charity that you respect and admire? Don’t forget there are local art organizations, food banks, churches, or synagogues that rely on volunteers to help those in need. Why don’t you reach out and see what you could do for them or how they could benefit from your input? You could also volunteer in hospitals, parks, libraries or museums.
Final thoughts: From social interactions and meaningful connections, to numerous health benefits and learning opportunities, the impact of volunteering is undeniable. It offers a wealth of benefits for mature individuals, encompassing physical mental and emotional wellbeing and plays a crucial role in helping older Americans live happier, healthier, and more rewarding lives. Given the valuable contributions older adults can make to their communities, as well as their own health and happiness, they should be encouraged to explore volunteering opportunities and continue living their lives to the fullest. No matter how old they are.