As we approach our golden years, we can look forward to dedicating more of our time to hobbies and pursuits that fulfill us and with the friends and family we love. Whether it’s nurturing a long-held passion for painting or exploring far-flung destinations by cruise ship, the opportunities and events that lie ahead can make this next chapter a truly memorable one.
However, for many seniors, the transition from work-life to retirement can be a daunting prospect. Adjusting to a slower pace of life after a full and vibrant career may be a challenge for some, while for others, feelings of loneliness and isolation may become more pronounced in later life. One way seniors can stay engaged with others and master the art of aging gracefully is by volunteering. In this article, we will explore some of the benefits to be gained through these activities in more detail.
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Improved Cognitive Health
Age is one of the primary factors that can contribute to cognitive decline in individuals. Staying mentally active in older age can help to maintain cognitive function and enhance overall brain health as we age.
According to advice from the National Institute on Aging (NIH), being engaged in personally meaningful activities such as volunteering can help the mind remain active, and promote health and happiness in old age. As a result, age-related cognitive disorders such as mild cognitive impairment (MCI), Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia may also be mitigated or their onset slowed down.
Alleviating Social Isolation
According to a report by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM), approximately 25% of community-dwelling adults in the U.S. aged 65 and above are considered to be socially isolated. Social isolation can lead to a number of health risks ranging from higher rates of depression and anxiety to premature death.
This is why many assisted living facilities such as the Assisted Living Albert Lea promote community activities such as bingo and communal dining, which create closer connections and foster stronger relationships between residents. Volunteering in the local community can also help older adults engage with their community, giving them opportunities to socialize and form meaningful connections with like-minded individuals of all ages and backgrounds.
Skill Development
Research shows that mental activity through learning can help keep the brain healthy and can ward off the effects of age-related cognitive and memory decline. Continuing to learn as we age should be prioritized as an important part of maintaining cognitive health and overall well-being.
Volunteering can offer older adults an opportunity to develop new skills in a range of areas, including computer literacy, fundraising, and event planning. In addition, soft skills like leadership, problem-solving, and teamwork can also be honed, helping individuals in their personal development and quest for lifelong learning.
Personal Satisfaction
Volunteering provides an opportunity for individuals to give back to their community, many of whom have years of experience in a certain field such as business or teaching. Through volunteering their time and expertise in this area, they can make significant contributions to society and positively benefit the lives of others, engendering a sense of personal satisfaction and fulfillment.
As highlighted, the rewards of volunteering can help older adults create an enriching and fulfilling life while benefiting others.
