Volunteering and It’s Surprising Benefits
What gets you out of bed in the morning? For some people, it’s the career they’ve dedicated their lives to. For others, it’s raising kids and building a family. But, what happens when the kids have all grown up and moved out or after you’ve retired from that nine-to-five grind?
Without a sense of purpose to keep us moving, it’s easy to feel a bit lost or aimless. Even with plenty of hobbies, friends to spend time with and family gatherings to enjoy, it’s common to feel like something is missing from your life.
In this post, we’ll share ways to fill that space with things you’re passionate about while also doing something good for your community. Who knows, you might find that volunteering brings the renewed sense of purpose you’ve been craving. You may also discover other benefits of volunteering that hadn’t crossed your mind.
Volunteer Work After Retirement – 3 Health Benefits of Volunteering
Whether you’re newly retired or have been enjoying this new phase in your life for a few years, studies show that volunteering can be especially beneficial for the retired population. According to the Mayo Clinic, the health benefits of volunteering can range from reduced stress levels, a boost in self-esteem, and improved mental health, to lower blood pressure and an overall better quality of life.
So how do you get started? Look into a cause or local organization that you’re passionate about and see if there is a way you can give back. It can be a win-win, you help an organization in need and enhance your quality of life all at the same time! Here’s a closer look at three surprising benefits you’ll enjoy when you start volunteering.
1. Volunteering May Help You Live Longer
Yes, it sounds too good to be true, but this benefit is actually well-documented. The Center for Disease Control (CDC) and its Longitudinal Studies of Aging found lower mortality rates among individuals who spent time volunteering when compared to individuals who did not engage in volunteerism. Additional studies have found that the health benefits of volunteering can lead to a reduction in chronic pain and depression and can even lower your blood pressure as well. Is it possible that a charitable, giving soul can enjoy a longer more fulfilling life? Maybe.
2. Volunteering Increases Feelings of Happiness and Satisfaction
In the 60s, the Rolling Stones famously sang about not being able to get satisfaction. Too bad no one told them about this health benefit of volunteering. When we’re doing something good for humanity, the brain releases four main “feel-good” chemicals – endorphin, oxytocin, serotonin, and dopamine – that makes us feel happy and connected to something bigger than ourselves, which can be immeasurably rewarding and a fulfilling experience. The key is to find something you’re passionate about, tune into your talents, and determine how you can help advance a cause or organization that’s close to your heart. Your help will be appreciated and you’ll feel great knowing you played a role in the success.
3. Volunteering Helps You Build Connections and Leave A Legacy
Not only can you meet new people, fine tune your social skills and expand your network; volunteering can leave a legacy of giving that will be remembered by many for years to come. Simply sharing a volunteer experience can impact others and motivate them to also explore ways they too can make the world a better place.
Volunteerism Is An Important Part Of Life At Silver Maples
“Silver Maples residents are always looking for opportunities to give back to our community, both within the walls of Silver Maples and in Chelsea and its surrounding areas,” shares Winn Nichols, Director of Programming and Wellness. “From visiting patients at the cancer center to staffing tables at community events to get out the vote, residents find causes they are passionate about and give of their time and effort. Here at Silver Maples, we have more than a dozen resident volunteer committees who work to shape the way life at Silver Maples looks, helping to do things like plan activities, run church services, and maintain gardens.” Annually we celebrate and thank our volunteers with an appreciation luncheon served by our leadership team. What’s amazing about this celebration is to see over one-third of our total residents sitting in that room. Our residents are truly building connections, leaving a legacy, and living the best life they can! Interested in learning more about our award-winning community? We’d love to connect with you and discuss the wide range of housing options and convenient services we offer older adults in all stages of life. Contact us today to learn more!
Explore Volunteer Opportunities in Chelsea, Michigan Today!
Now that you know some of the health benefits of volunteering, are you ready to get out there and make a difference? The best part about the volunteer opportunities near Chelsea is that it’s easy to find a cause you feel passionate about supporting. To get started, check out volunteer opportunities near Chelsea, to find the perfect fit for your interests, passions or level of commitment.
