Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors

As we age, it is only common to start slowing down and to stop doing as many activities as we once did. However, when we reach senior age, it is important that we don?t slow down too much and that we still get out and engage with others in our community.

There are many ways that seniors can do this?and one of the most productive and inspiring things that seniors can do when they reach this age is to give back and volunteer. Volunteering is a great way for seniors to stay active and get out of the house, which can help with common issues such as loneliness, isolation and depression. It can also help seniors feel good about themselves and what they are doing for others.

Volunteering is also a great social activity as it gives seniors a chance to spend time with others who have like-minded interests. The great thing about volunteer work is there are so many different ways to give back and so many different types of volunteer opportunities out there. Take a look at some of the most common options that seniors can explore.

• Working at an animal shelter. Seniors can walk dogs or sit and socialize with cats, depending on their preference. If seniors aren?t comfortable with handling the animals but still want to give back, most of these shelters typically always need volunteers even to greet people or do office work.
• Spending time with children. There are many ways that seniors can volunteer their time with kids in need. Most seniors love spending time with children, and would love the opportunity to help, or read to, kids in need, especially when they can?t always spend time with their own grandchildren.
• Volunteering at a soup kitchen. Homeless shelters and soup kitchens are always in need of helpers, particularly around the holiday season and would love to welcome in friendly seniors who want to give back. They can cook, clean, green people or just spend time with veterans looking for companionship.
• Veteran programs. Whether it is volunteering on an honor flight or at the VA hospital, there are so many different ways to give back to those who have served their country. You can find veteran programs around the country and all types of programs that can help give back.

There are so many organizations out there that will help people find volunteer organizations and determine who they should partner with when they want to give back. Of course, nearly all non-profit organizations are always out there and willing to accept new volunteers who want to do what they can to help. All seniors need to do to take advantage of these volunteer opportunities is reach out to an organization that they care about, in order to get started.