When you think about volunteering, you’re probably more likely to imagine a younger person assisting an older individual than the opposite scenario. For many people, volunteering conjures images of strong, youthful people lifting heavy objects and taking on significant physical challenges. But the opportunities available in the world of volunteering encompass options that people of all ages and abilities can consider. For seniors, this opens up a whole new world of possibilities, but it’s often necessary to help aging individuals when it comes to locating and engaging with volunteer opportunities.
Benefits of Volunteering for Seniors
You might think that the ideal life for the average senior would be filled with leisure and rest. While this isn’t entirely untrue, most seniors have a desire to contribute to society and work to help others. And when they are able to realize this desire to give back, they tend to experience a number of benefits, including:
– Prevention of depression and isolation
– Increased physical activity and exercise
– Improved mental health
– Prevention of Alzheimer’s Disease and other forms of dementia
– Bridging of the generation gap
– The chance to change minds about what seniors can do
The list could go on and on. As you can see, the potential benefits for seniors are significant and meaningful.
But seniors don’t always find it easy to connect themselves with appropriate volunteer opportunities, especially if they aren’t Internet savvy or otherwise skilled with modern technology.
Helping Seniors Find Volunteer Opportunities
If you’re curious about helping a senior loved one find volunteer opportunities that fit with their age, interest level and physical ability, the first step is making sure that it’s something that your elderly loved one wants to do. Have they expressed a desire to volunteer? Have they mentioned a growing sense of isolation and loneliness? Have they hinted at the possibility of going back to work? If yes is the answer to any of these questions, it’s something you should definitely pursue.
Once you’ve determined that your senior has a desire to volunteer, it’s time to narrow the focus. How much time can they handle? Who are they interested in helping (other seniors, children, developmentally disabled individuals, people with Alzheimer’s)? What is the level of physical ability?
Now it’s time to search for opportunities that make sense. Use the Internet to find opportunities in your area, but don’t be afraid to ask around, either.
Also, it’s good to know that some volunteer opportunities requires less of a commitment than others. For example, volunteering with tax help is something that many seniors do, but it’s not necessarily a year-round activity, making it ideal for seniors who may not want to commit to a long-term role. At the other end of the spectrum, there is always a need for help at local kitchens and food banks, providing and endless source of opportunity for those who want to give back.
Always Best Care Can Help
Is there a senior in your life who needs help connecting with opportunities to volunteer? Always Best Care is here for you! We understand our local communities and their needs, and we are able to connect the seniors in our care with opportunities that enrich lives. Give us a call today at 1 (855) 470-CARE (2273) to learn more and receive a FREE consultation.
