It may surprise you to learn that, in the United States, only 23% of people volunteer (US Census Bureau). Although this number isn’t zero, it can always be a lot higher, and one way of encouraging more local and national assistance is through senior volunteer programs.
Retirement volunteer opportunities pair older adults with organizations that best fit their needs and ability level. From there, they can connect with charities and individuals in need, making valuable use of their free time while making a difference in the world around them.
Here is some of the best volunteer work for seniors.
Senior Corps
Older adults looking to volunteer with other seniors (or individuals at least 55 years of age) should consider Senior Corps. Seniors can choose from one of three programs:
- Senior Companions
- Foster Grandparents
- RSVP
These opportunities connect older adults with various national and local charitable organizations so they can get out and help the community around them. Whatever their interest level, there’s bound to be a program they’ll enjoy volunteering with through Senior Corps.
Animal Shelters
Older adults in senior living communities will also benefit from retirement volunteering at animal shelters, as these furry friends can help with their overall mood. For example, animals can:
- Spark positive memories
- Ease anxiety and stress and improve mental health
- Provide companionship, even if just volunteering
- Decrease blood pressure
- Decrease a feeling of loneliness
By volunteering at an animal shelter, seniors can help homeless animals as they await their forever homes while benefiting from all the positive aspects of being around furry friends.
Seniors should always consider possible allergies before signing up to help at an animal shelter or ask to work with specific pets if needed.
Work With Children
Older adults in independent living would also benefit from volunteering children, either as mentors or tutors, all depending on their interest levels and what skills they have to share. Seniors make ideal role models and mentors for young people, especially at-risk youth who need a positive adult in their lives. Conversely, older adults will benefit from having a young person to spend time with, sharing stories and teaching each other new things.
Seniors can help young people with:
- Their homework
- Learning a new skill, such as crocheting or knitting
- Reading and writing
Plus, so much more.
Volunteer at Parks
Other senior engagement activities include volunteering at local and national parks, as this is ideal for older adults who love nature and want to be outside.
Depending on a person’s experience level, there are plenty of roles for them at various parks. They can be tour guides or even campground hosts, depending on the park system they volunteer at.
Food Pantries
Seniors can also make a huge difference at their local food pantry. This is a perfect spot to volunteer and meet new friends while sorting different goods to give out to community members.
Although food pantries need help all year long, they especially need assistance during holidays, and if seniors are comfortable driving, they can deliver goods to those who are homebound.
Children’s Hospitals
Anyone looking to brighten the day of a child should volunteer at a children’s hospital. When a child’s parents are at work or tending to other siblings, they may be alone in the hospital. This can be especially upsetting for young children, but older adults can spend time with them, reading books and playing games.
Seniors can also knit blankets, scarves, hats, and toys for children in hospitals, working to make their day a little brighter as they recover.
Community Gardens
Community gardens are another excellent way to get involved, especially for older adults with a green thumb. This is also an excellent volunteer opportunity for anyone who loves to cook using home-grown ingredients.
The great thing about community gardens is that there’s always something to do, from planting fruits, vegetables, and flowers to tending to the garden, ensuring all plants are thriving.
If a community doesn’t have a garden but a group of seniors want to start one together, they can create a local group and assign jobs to one another. They can even find ways of extending this garden elsewhere in the community, planting flowers anywhere that needs pops of color and creating a welcoming space for everyone to enjoy.
Volunteer Considerations for Senior Community Roles
Although volunteering offers meaningful roles for older adults looking to get involved with their community, there are considerations they should explore before selecting a volunteer role. This also works to keep seniors safe, as not all volunteer opportunities are created equal.
Unfortunately, some volunteer organizations are scams. Seniors should look for the following red flags when volunteering:
- Fees are asked in advance of volunteering
- Volunteers working with vulnerable populations (children, the elderly, and animals) aren’t screened
- The organization doesn’t have a website listing its board of directors
- There are no photos of the work their organization does in the community (or at least of members)
- Your gut is telling you something is unethical
It’s important to always volunteer for reputable organizations, both locally and nationally.
Additionally, seniors should consider the type of volunteering they’d like to do. This might include a hobby or skill they excel at and can share with others.
Seniors should also read an organization’s mission statement, ensuring it aligns with their personal beliefs and values. Also, make sure that the organization is reputable and has plenty of positive reviews.
The Best Senior Volunteer Opportunities
Remember to volunteer with reputable organizations when looking for the best senior volunteer opportunities. This means checking reviews and ensuring that each charitable organization is legitimate and transparent. It’s also important to select volunteer opportunities that align with your beliefs and interest levels.
Aside from volunteering, older adults can benefit from a myriad of active senior living programs at the Conservatory at Plano. We have everything you or your loved one needs to excel in an independent senior living community, such as restaurant-style dining, concierge services, and tons of fun activities. Contact us today to learn more about all the amenities we offer and how you can thrive in our beautiful community.
