Brenda Lyle – Florida Today
Q: I want to do something in retirement. Where can I volunteer?
By Brenda Lyle
Retirees aged 65 and older continue to be the backbone of America’s volunteer population, comprising 28.6% of all volunteer hours, according to AARP. Seniors have an incredible wealth of wisdom, skills, and experiences to share with the world! Volunteering is a way to connect with others, find deep fulfillment, and stay active after retirement. All while making a real difference and enjoying some amazing benefits.
The Healthy Benefits
It’s not a secret that volunteering sparks joy by keeping you connected and engaged. Let me count the ways! By volunteering, you’ll meet new friends and keep your social skills sharp. It provides a meaningful way to contribute to your community, giving you a sense of direction and accomplishment. Plus, it’s an opportunity to grow. Whether you’re learning new skills or polishing existing ones, volunteering fuels personal growth and leaves you feeling, well… proud. Tackling new tasks and solving problems keeps your mind sharp– supporting cognitive health and keeping your brain buzzing with excitement. Volunteering can also boost your confidence and create a sense of belonging, similar to being part of a big family working toward shared goals. Importantly, meaningful activities lift your spirits and support both mental and physical health, keeping you energized. And if all that’s not enough, studies suggest that seniors who volunteer actually enjoy longer, healthier lives.
Where Can I Find Volunteer Opportunities?
There’s a volunteering opportunity for everyone, no matter your passions. Many people start with their church, synagogue or place of worship. Love sharing knowledge? Consider mentoring kids at after-school programs or guiding young professionals. Your local school district has a volunteer “wish list” and will help you with the process to become an approved volunteer. Local nonprofits, food banks, or soup kitchens would likewise cherish your help. Meals on Wheels is an excellent program, dependent on volunteers. For animal lovers, shelters or rescues offer a chance to care for furry friends. Arts lovers can lend a hand at museums, libraries, or theaters. If your handyman skills are stellar, there’s Habitat for Humanity. You can also brighten lives at assisted living facilities by visiting residents, or sharing your unique talents. Whew!
If you’re looking for a bit of income in retirement, there are a number of employers looking for talented seniors. Whether you choose a paid or volunteer role, pick activities that light up your passions. Ready to jump in? Volunteers for Community Impact serves Orange, Volusia, Osceola and Seminole Counties. And on October 13, One Senior Place in Viera will host a Senior Job & Volunteer Fair, connecting seniors with organizations that need them. Call 321-751-6771 for more information.
Brenda Lyle is a Certified Care Manager and Certified Dementia Practitioner with One Senior Place, Greater Orlando. One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.
