For older adults, benefits of volunteering work both ways

Chances are that at some point in your life you have served as a volunteer, or have been helped by a volunteer. All volunteers are valuable resources to the people and organizations they are serving, but you might not often realize that older adult volunteers are the cornerstones of many local organizations.

According to the latest data from the Corporation for National and Community Service, 18.7 million older adults contribute, on average, more than 3 billion hours of service in their communities each year. In fact, older adults who volunteer typically give more hours in a year than any other age group. Their contributions and skills meet a wide range of needs in communities.

Rhode Island is fortunate to have an active group of older volunteers, but we lag behind other New England states and the U.S. average. Rhode Island’s volunteer rate of 18.5 percent among adults 65 and older ranks 48th in relation to other states. Nationally, 24.2 percent of older adults volunteer.

Older adults who do volunteer are providing valuable services to individuals and communities — and they also benefit from the experience. Research shows senior volunteers are living more active and healthier lives than their non-volunteering counterparts. Specifically, older volunteers report lower mortality rates, lower rates of depression, fewer physical limitations and higher levels of well-being, according to data gathered by the Corporation for National and Community Service. 

At this time of year, when we give thanks for all that we’ve been blessed with, from family and friends to basic needs, it is important to consider giving of your time to others. Not only will you be providing a service to those in need, but you will benefit as well.

Volunteer opportunities can be found at local senior and community centers, libraries, hospitals and food pantries. Many people lend their time to organizations that hold a place in their heart, such as the Red Cross or the American Cancer Society.

There are a number of volunteer options geared specifically toward Rhode Island seniors; one of the following might be the right fit for you. 

• The Foster Grandparents and RSVP programs can be reached at 528-5426.

• The Neighborhood Friendly Visitor Program, at 421-7833, provides companionship and support to homebound elderly.

• Serve Rhode Island, 331-2298, encourages volunteerism as a vital role in citizenship and service, enhancing quality of life.

In addition, the Division of Elderly Affairs sponsors several programs that offer a hand to the state’s elders:

• The Senior Companion Program, 462-0569, trains volunteers to serve isolated older adults.

• In The Senior Health Insurance Program, 462-0194, volunteers provide one-to-one counseling to seniors, adults with disabilities, families and caregivers regarding health insurance programs.

• The Senior Medicare Patrol, 462-0931, provides volunteers to assist beneficiaries in recognizing and reporting Medicare and Medicaid fraud, waste and abuse.

Wherever you choose to share your time and talent, you will have the satisfaction of knowing that you have made another person’s life a little better.

A bit of housekeeping: Please note that the Division of Elderly Affairs recently moved office locations. The division is now housed in Building 57, Louis Pasteur 2nd Floor, 25 Howard Ave., Cranston.

— Meghan Connelly is chief of program development at the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Division of Elderly Affairs. Email your questions to features@providencejournal.com, and be sure to include "Taking Charge" in the subject line. Or, mail them to Taking Charge, Features Department, 75 Fountain St., Providence, RI 02902.