When the idea of retirement rolls around, some people are overjoyed by the thought of freedom, others look for the next thing they can do in their life.
Volunteering at an organisation has been proven to offer seniors great benefits for their physical and mental health, as well as social connection.
A report released by VicHealth in 2012 identified volunteering can help alleviate depression, increase satisfaction with life, lower the frequency of hospitalisation and boost a person’s ability to cope with illness.
Volunteering doesn’t only improve the health and wellbeing of the volunteer but for those who are on the receiving end, there are also undeniable benefits.
Volunteers help contribute to social change, bridge the gap between young and old, help engage people in the community and raise awareness around certain issues.
The State of Volunteering Report released by Volunteering Victoria in 2020 showed the majority of the 2.3 million people who volunteer in Victoria are over the age of 65, totalling 78.9 per cent.
The percentage of people who volunteer when they are out of work or only work part time was highest of all employment situations at 74.4 per cent.
Programs for volunteers can range from emergency relief, opportunity shop staff members, youth support officers, animal welfare, meals-on-wheels, soup kitchens and in-school support roles for disadvantaged students.
Enjoying senior life doesn’t just have to mean travelling Australia in a caravan, it can be finally exploring that hobby or interest that has just been at the back of the mind.
Passing on knowledge, skills, expertise and wisdom may be the thing that most rewards you.
Head to the Volunteering Victoria website to find an opportunity to suit your interests, https://www.volunteeringvictoria.org.au/for-volunteers/search-for-volunteer-roles/
