\u200bWhen an older adult retires and life starts to slow down, they may feel bored or like their lives lack purpose. Family caregivers who notice this happening in their aging relatives may want to consider encouraging the older adult to get involved in volunteer work. There are many reasons volunteering can be beneficial for seniors, like these below.<\/p>\n
Volunteering Reduces the Risk of Depression<\/strong><\/p>\n Doing work that helps other people can make older adults feel good. In fact, experts say that volunteering cuts the risk of many mental health problems, including depression and anxiety. Researchers have conducted tests that show certain hormones and brain activity associated with happiness occur when people volunteer.<\/p>\n People Who Volunteer May Avoid High Blood Pressure<\/strong><\/p>\n Caregivers who are concerned about an older having high blood pressure might want to consider volunteering as a way of managing or preventing high blood pressure. According to one study, seniors who volunteer at least 200 hours per year (a little less than 4 hours per week) have a 40 percent lower risk of high blood pressure.<\/p>\n Volunteering Can Increase Independence<\/strong><\/p>\n Being a volunteer can increase your aging relative\u2019s confidence, making them feel better and more sure of themselves. This could lead them to feeling more comfortable doing things independently, with less help from a caregiver. In addition, volunteering can offer physical health benefits that increase strength and make it possible for older adults to do more without help.<\/p>\n