April is Global Volunteer Month
Giving Back in Your Golden Years
Volunteering can help strengthen our communities, but did you know that volunteering offers numerous health advantages for individuals of all ages, including seniors? Engaging in volunteer activities helps older adults stay active, connect with their communities, and maintain a sense of purpose. April is Global Volunteer Month, and in this month’s blog, we explore several key benefits of volunteering for seniors.
Physical Health Benefits
- Increased Physical Activity: Many volunteer opportunities require physical movement, which can help seniors maintain strength, flexibility, and balance. This physical activity is crucial in preventing age-related decline and reducing the risk of chronic diseases.
- Improved Heart Health: Volunteering has been linked to improved cardiovascular health. Regular activities can lower blood pressure and reduce stress levels, contributing to a healthier heart.
Mental and Emotional Health Benefits
- Enhanced Mood and Reduced Depression: Engaging in meaningful activities and helping others can boost mood and decrease symptoms of depression. The sense of accomplishment and connection to others can promote overall mental well-being.
- Cognitive Stimulation: Volunteering often involves problem-solving and learning new skills, which can provide cognitive stimulation. This stimulation is beneficial in maintaining cognitive function and potentially reducing the risk of dementia.
Social Benefits
- Expanded Social Networks: Volunteering offers opportunities to meet new people and form meaningful relationships. This social interaction can combat feelings of loneliness and isolation, which are common concerns for seniors.
- Building a Sense of Community: By contributing to their communities, seniors can feel more connected and valued. This involvement fosters a sense of belonging and community pride.
Personal Growth and Fulfillment
- Sense of Purpose: Many seniors find a renewed sense of purpose through volunteering. Contributing to causes they care about can bring personal satisfaction and meaning to their lives.
- Skill Development: Volunteering can also be an avenue for seniors to learn new skills or refine existing ones. Whether it’s learning to use new technology or mastering a craft, these skills enhance personal growth.
If you are interested in volunteering in your community, but don’t have an organization in mind, there are several resources available. In Pennsylvania you can call 211 to get information about local organizations that need volunteers. Discover NEPA also offers a robust listing of local non-profits that need volunteers on their website at https://discovernepa.com/support-a-cause/.
Dr. Ken Sebastianelli has served as Medical Director for Elan Skilled Nursing and Rehab, a Jewish Senior Life Community, since 2012. Dr. Sebastianelli is a board-certified Internal Medicine practitioner with Prime Med Medical Group, and is affiliated with Geisinger Community Medical Center and Moses Taylor Hospital. He is also a member of the Medical Executive Committee at Geisinger Community Medical Center.
