Seniors who volunteer believe they are healthier and happier than those who don’t, according to a new survey.
The nationwide survey, conducted by the Home Instead Senior Care Network, found that 95 percent of senior volunteers felt that volunteer work has physical as well as emotional benefits.
Three-fourths of the seniors interviewed said that volunteering helps them control or manage chronic conditions like diabetes, arthritis or high blood pressure. Another finding: Seniors with chronic conditions devote slightly more time to volunteering than those without such conditions.
Seventy percent of volunteers said they believed that their work helped them overcome isolation and depression.
“We know from our work with seniors that the more active an individual, the more likely that he or she will continue to remain independent while aging. Those who find a way to give back, even if they have their own aches and pains and need help, realize many benefits,” said Jeff Huber, President and Chief Operating Officer of Home Instead Senior Care.
The survey consisted of 600 telephone interviews with people aged 65 or older who volunteer for unpaid community service.
