Volunteer for Better Health

You may think volunteers help people in need and improve your community. But did you know the benefits of volunteering can be just as great to You? The right volunteer opportunity can improve your mental and physical health. Check out these 6 health benefits of volunteering.

1. Volunteering improves social connection.
When we come together for a common purpose, we create community. Studies have shown daily social interaction can significantly increase life expectancy. You can have social interaction simply by volunteering in the community, but when you choose a volunteer activity you are passionate about the impact increases, providing an opportunity to meet other like-minded individuals with similar interests. This opens the possibility to build meaningful friendships that last long after the volunteer event is over.

2. Volunteering reduces stress.
Whether we are working with children, veterans, or seniors, a purposeful volunteer experience can take our mind off our worries and focus our attention on someone or something else. The more valuable the experience, the more we feel satisfied with giving of our time and talents, and that results in improved mood and less stress.

3. Volunteering helps you stay physically active.
There are many fun ways to be active as a volunteer without committing to strenuous work. You can garden, tutor a child, or help at a food pantry. Getting you out of the house and moving your body helps you stay healthy.

4. Volunteering provides an opportunity to learn.
Continuing to learn at any age does good things for your brain. Research shows learning keeps brain cells working at optimum levels, which can limit cognitive and memory decline as we age. As long as you are acquiring new knowledge, you are keeping your brain healthier.

5. Volunteering decreases the risk of depression.
Not only does volunteering prevent social isolation that can lead to depression, it also increases motivation by providing a sense of accomplishment. By measuring hormones and brain activity, researchers have discovered that being helpful to others delivers immense pleasure. Human beings are hard-wired to give to others. The more we give, the happier we feel.

6. Volunteering gives a sense of purpose.
Psychologists encourage those who have experienced loss, retired from a career, or live with a chronic disease to volunteer, because it can occupy their time in a meaningful way, giving them a new purpose. Volunteering can give you a sense of pride and identity. The better you feel about yourself, the more likely you are to have a positive outlook on life.

Get the most out of these health benefits

It’s important to find the volunteer opportunity that’s right for you. Here are some things to consider to ensure you have a positive experience and maximize the health benefits of volunteering.

Find a cause you care about.

Giving your time to a cause you care about will bring even greater joy and fulfillment to volunteering, maximizing your sense of purpose and social fulfillment.

In-person or remote? Your safety is important.
COVID-19 is still a factor. Not ready to volunteer in-person? There are many opportunities to help remotely from the comfort of home. Want to connect with others in person who share your commitment to personal and community health? Look for opportunities to serve with organizations that follow CDC and local guidelines to stay healthy and safe.

Look for a volunteer commitment that works for your schedule.
Volunteering should reduce stress, not create stress by overcommitting. There are volunteer opportunities for every schedule. Look for the one that’s right for you. Giving even just a little time can have a big impact.

Know your abilities and be ready to share them.
You may find an organization you are passionate about, but their current volunteer opportunities don’t work for your schedule, abilities, or comfort level. If you have a skill that could benefit them, don’t be afraid to speak up and offer your services. You just might be the volunteer they need.

Seniors in Service partners with nonprofits in Pasco, Pinellas, and Hillsborough Counties to help individuals 55 and better find the perfect volunteer opportunity. We match you with a service opportunity that fits your passion, schedule, and abilities. Start living with purpose. Volunteer today.

Learn more at www.SeniorsInService.org or call Chris 813-492-8916.