volunteering for seniors

Six desirable benefits of volunteering for seniors

RESIDENTS TOUCHING THE LIVES OF OTHERS AND REAPING PERSONAL BENEFITS IN RETURN.

BY DALLAS RETIREMENT VILLAGE

1. Decreases the risk of depression. Giving one’s time to others increases social interaction and helps build a support system based on common interests. Both have been shown to decrease depression. 2. Promotes a sense of purpose and teaches valuable skills. Volunteers for select health care entities and service organizations perform critical roles assisting clients, patients, families, and staff. And they learn while doing, as well. Many serve as greeters who provide information and directions, as transporters for patients and their belongings, and as waiting room attendants. They make prayer shawls, blankets, sweaters, and hats typically given to newborn babies and cancer patients. They provide essential operational services that include working in the hospital gift shop and performing clerical duties for staff. These all give volunteers a sense of purpose. 3. Encourages greater physical and mental activity. Volunteer activities get you moving and thinking at the same time, providing great benefits to physical and mental health. Studies have found that, in general, volunteers report better physical health than non-volunteers do. Older volunteers experience greater increases in life satisfaction and greater positive changes in their perceived health as a result. 4. Potentially reduces stress levels. Volunteering may enhance a person’s social network to buffer stress and reduce the risk of disease. By savoring time spent in service to others, one feels a sense of meaning and appreciation, both given and received, which can have a stress-reducing effect. 5. May support longevity. An analysis of CDC data from the Longitudinal Study of Aging found that individuals who volunteer have lower mortality rates than those who do not. In addition, several studies have shown that volunteers with chronic or serious illnesses experience a decline in pain intensity and depression when serving as peer volunteers for others also suffering from chronic pain. 6. Fosters socialization and new relationship development. One of the best ways to make new friends and strengthen existing relationships is to participate in a shared activity together. Volunteering is a great way to meet new people who share common interests. Dedicating time as a volunteer also helps expand your network and practice social skills with others.