Recent research suggests that retired adults who are involved in community and social activities are more likely to extend their physical and mental well being than those who do not engage in these activities.
 
Volunteering addresses two vital needs:
 

  • The extension of well being for retired adults.
  • Providing much needed services to those in need, communities, non-profit and government organizations.

 
Volunteering and Health
 
Research indicates that volunteering can provide the following outcomes:
 

  • Reduced depression as a result of feeling that one is needed.
  • Better physical conditioning as a result of maintaining an active lifestyle required by many volunteer situations.
  • Better Cognitive functioning as a result of several factors including the need to interact with others, plan various activities and functions and increased physical activity.
  • Reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and an increased life span because of all of the above.

 

Check out our guest posts and pages about volunteering.

Also check out volunteering opportunities in the private sector, through the UN and with the government.