When older adults move into a retirement community, they often find they have a renewed passion for creating a lasting impact. Whether through social activities or giving back, there are many ways for seniors to spend their new-found free time in a way that suits their passions. In fact, many find that volunteer work and community service are the perfect choice.
Benefits of Volunteering for Older Adults
Whether your volunteer pursuits are ongoing, or you simply want to embrace opportunities as they arise, there are many advantages that seniors who volunteer during their retirement can enjoy. The Mayo Clinic shares that improved physical and mental health, a sense of purpose, and nurtured relationships are some of the advantages you may experience when you volunteer.
Increased Satisfaction and Joy
When you’re volunteering, it’s hard not to feel a little spark of happiness in doing something good for others. The reality is that giving back to those in need isn’t just beneficial for the recipient, but it is also a fulfilling experience for the volunteer themselves. Giving back can:
- Increase relaxation
- Enhance happiness
- Decrease anxiety
- Lessen the effects of stress
- Provide a renewed sense of purpose
- Boost self-esteem
- Positively impact confidence
- Strengthen an older adult’s independence
Enhanced Physical Activity
Did you know that volunteering also helps seniors stay active? It’s true, according to the Mayo Clinic; volunteers often report better physical health than non-volunteers! So, if fitness is one of your goals during retirement, finding a volunteer opportunity that also keeps you active is a bonus.
A Decreased Risk of Social Isolation
Volunteering gives seniors the opportunity to be actively engaged with others for a common purpose. It allows them to meet new, interesting people and feel more connected to their community. The more involved a person is, the less likely they will have feelings of isolation and depression. In other words, more volunteering often equates to more socializing, which can sharpen cognitive skills, increase happiness and may even help seniors living longer!
Ways Seniors Are Volunteering
If you have a passion for helping others, giving back or simply caring, options abound! No matter your interests, there are plenty of volunteer opportunities available for you to try out.
- Volunteer at a pet or homeless shelter
- Read to kindergarten classes or tutor high school students
- Spend time with those who are home-bound or are in skilled nursing
- Begin volunteering with a local health care service
- Educate other older adults about their senior care and living options
- Share your talents by teaching a class or organizing activities
- Host monthly dinners for new senior living community residents
- Show prospective residents around your community
- Donate clothing to local shelters or churches
- Volunteer your time at a local food bank
- Ask your local place of worship what their biggest needs are for volunteers
NOW THIS IS HOME.
Waterstone Senior Living communities feature luxury apartments, gourmet dining and socially enriching retirement lifestyles. Our communities are ideally located close to fine retailers, restaurants and area attractions. Learn more about what Waterstone has to offer by scheduling a personal visit today.