Volunteering is a great way to address many health concerns of seniors, including isolation and depression. More than just an activity to occupy an idle mind, volunteering also offers opportunities to connect with others, exercise your body, learn new skills, and bring fulfillment to your life.
While certain “extroverts” are naturally outgoing, others are shy and have a hard time meeting new people. Volunteering can get senior introverts out of the house to practice and develop their social skills. Volunteer groups often attract active community members, passionate professionals, and lots of friendly faces. Volunteer groups usually meet at local community spots like schools and churches. Your new network of neighbors may be closer than you think.
Getting out of the house exercises not only your mind, but also your body. Volunteer activities like delivering campaign flyers door to door, cleaning up a beach, or planting trees requires lots of mild-physical labor. This is a great way to sneak in some exercise too!
Just because volunteer work is unpaid, it certainly does not mean you don’t get anything out of it. You can always learn new skills while taking on different roles. Some volunteering opportunities provide extensive training in a new field you may be interested in or passionate about. Others also refine skills one may already have, and use them to give back to the greater community. For example, knowledgeable art historians or retired professors often donate their time as museum guides. Identifying your goals and interests before selecting an opportunity can help you make the most of your volunteering experience.
While there are lots of ways to find volunteering opportunities near you, RSVP is an online volunteer network specifically tailored for people 55 and older. A program of Senior Corps, RSVP provides flexible and diverse opportunities for older adults to get involved in their communities.
Volunteering opportunities are often a lot closer than you think. Helping out at home or babysitting the grandchildren is always especially rewarding. Community events like beach clean ups, tree planting projects, and other beautification efforts are great ways to make an impact.
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By Prithvi Chauhan
