The Value of Volunteering

From poll workers to high school math tutors, unpaid volunteers are often the glue that holds a community together. And no age group contributes more volunteer hours than adults over the age of 65. Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and their increasing participation in the labor market, seniors lead the way in volunteerism. And it’s no wonder. Older adults offer a lifetime of wisdom and leadership to their communities.

Volunteering is powerful avenue for seniors to not only give back to the community, but also to enhance their own lives. Engaging in volunteer work can offer a renewed sense of purpose, bolster health, and strengthen social bonds—all essential factors in promoting well-being in our older years. After just one year of participation in AmeriCorps Seniors, 80% of volunteers reported that their health had improved.

A renewed sense of purpose

Post-retirement life can sometimes feel like a jarring transition. With careers wrapping up and the daily routine undergoing significant changes, many seniors find themselves seeking new ways to feel needed and useful. Volunteering can fill this gap by offering opportunities to contribute to society meaningfully.

Whether it’s mentoring younger generations, assisting in local libraries, or participating in environmental conservation efforts, the act of giving back can reignite a sense of purpose. This renewed vigor not only enriches lives, but also instills a sense of accomplishment and self-worth.

The benefits of volunteering extend well beyond emotional fulfillment; they also contribute significantly to physical health. Studies suggest that engaging in volunteer work can both lower blood pressure and a cut one’s risk of getting hypertension at all, critical factors in maintaining cardiovascular health. Moreover, the physical activity involved in certain types of volunteering can enhance mobility and flexibility, crucial for aging bodies. A 2023 study from the University of California found that volunteering later in life may protect the brain against cognitive decline and dementia.

Psychologically, volunteering helps to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. The social interaction and community connectivity it fosters can ward off the loneliness and isolation that sometimes accompany older age. Maintaining an active social life through volunteering is linked to improved mental health and increased longevity.

Volunteering allows seniors to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups, fostering a robust social network. These interactions can provide both support and joy, which are vital as one navigates the later stages of life.

Community engagement through volunteering not only helps build a support network, but also enhances the social fabric of the community. Seniors often bring a wealth of experience and wisdom to their volunteer roles, offering insights that benefit the community and bridge generational gaps.

“Volunteering gives people a sense of purpose and hope that feeds your heart,” says Sandi Heintz of Right at Home Northwest Houston. “It helps you to be thankful for what you have and what you have experienced. Everybody deserves love, and sharing that makes you feel connected to something greater than yourself.” Giving back is something that is deeply personal to Sandi and her team. They frequently volunteer with Mission of Yahweh, an organization that assists homeless women and children, and Camp Hope, which helps traumatized veterans with peer support, mentorship, and professional development.

“We recently went to Mission of Yahweh and served lunch to homeless women and children,” Her team also organized a personal care item drive for them and got the opportunity to sit and engage with the people they were serving. “We got to love on them and listen to their stories.”

There are countless ways to get involved, depending on one’s interests and abilities. Nonprofits, hospitals, schools, and environmental groups are always on the lookout for dedicated volunteers. For those who prefer lower mobility activities, many organizations offer roles in administration, mentoring over the phone, or crafting from home.

“Even if someone is homebound, they still can do volunteer activities such as writing cards to voters or knitting blankets for homeless shelters,” Sandi says. “We must have things in our back pocket and think outside the box. There are always ways our caregivers can help their clients find meaning and purpose in their lives.”

For seniors looking to begin their volunteering journey, local community centers, volunteering websites, and social groups are excellent resources to find opportunities that align with personal interests and physical capabilities. AmeriCorps Seniors has a pathfinder tool to help adults 55 and older find opportunities that match their interest in their communities.

Volunteering in older age is not just about giving time to others; it’s about enhancing one’s own life through active participation and community engagement. The benefits are profound: a healthier lifestyle, a wider social network, and a fulfilling way to share your knowledge and skills. If you’re on the quest for purpose in your post-retirement years, consider the many benefits of volunteering. It’s an opportunity to stay active, involved, and connected, all of which are key ingredients for a happy and healthy life.