A UK research report has found a growing number of couples over 60 live in separate households, a trend particularly pronounced among those entering a new relationship at this stage of their lives. Improved mental health is a bonus.
Speakers of the calibre of David Knoff, the expedition leader stranded with his team in Antarctic during COVID, can regularly be heard at this global institution that places a premium on knowledge, not qualifications.
Volunteering in retirement is fulfilling – physically and mentally
Volunteering is a rewarding and beneficial activity for older Australians. Research shows it can reduce the risk of mortality, physical limitations, depression and anxiety, as well as increase physical activity, optimism and purpose in life.
It helps a retired person get out of their home and spend time in their community, forge social connections, get some exercise and provide the positive mental health benefits from knowing that you’re helping your community.
There are many different areas where senior citizens can bring their skills and capabilities to make a difference in the community. Among the more popular are:
Assisting a local politician: One powerful way to influence positive change is by actively participating in local politics. Local politicians always need support when running their election campaigns, be that through fundraising efforts, door-knocking or handing out material in community centres. Finding a politician that aligns with your values and supporting them makes you an integral part of the democratic process, and means that, by getting them elected, you are helping achieve change in your community.
Become a champion for local sports teams: On the other end of the spectrum, local sports teams are always in need of volunteers. Sports have an incredible ability to unite communities and provide opportunities for young talent, but they’re also restricted by tight budgets. By actively supporting a local sports team, whether through ticketing, merchandising, fundraising or simply cheering, you can help ensure those teams offer the best community services.
Supporting local food banks and soup kitchens: The fight against hunger is an issue that will always need the support of community-minded volunteers, and it’s an area where you can have a major impact. Whether you’re helping to source, cook or deliver food to the needy, or simply helping to keep the kitchens clean and hygienic, your contribution to these charities will fill stomachs and help people get their lives back on track.
Becoming a mentor and providing guidance: By becoming a mentor, you share your knowledge, skills and experiences with the next generation. People in every field need mentors, from the tradesperson that is trying to develop their career, to the entrepreneur with a great start-up idea and to the young professional keen to move through the ranks. Providing these people with your mentoring and insights is not only good for them, but also provides the mentor with a great deal of satisfaction, knowing that all the knowledge and expertise built through their career has a legacy.
Joining an international volunteering service: This is a bit out of left field, but for senior citizens that are interested in seeing the world and supporting causes as a global citizen, there are some incredible adventures to come from joining international volunteer organisations. As a senior citizen, you’re not going to want to participate in digging wells or providing medical services in refugee camps, but there’s many other things that you can achieve, whether it’s through advocacy, providing consulting services or helping those organisations build and maintain networks and donor lists.
Helping to care for the local environment: Taking care of the environment is a shared responsibility, but unfortunately, most towns and suburbs across Australia lack the resources to maintain pristine environments. Your area will have community-based environmental initiatives that provide a hands-on approach to make a difference. Joining groups focused on litter picking, recycling or gardening activities not only contributes to a cleaner and healthier local environment but you’ll get some good, low-impact exercise while you’re at it.
The main thing to remember when it comes to volunteering is that you should choose something that you’re passionate about. Once you start volunteering, people will rely on you being part of the cause, week-in, week-out. It’s a long-term commitment, and you’re not going to want to let people down, so make sure that you volunteer for something that you’ll love.
