Benefits of Volunteering for Older Adults

Audrey Hepburn once said, “As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands — one for helping yourself and the other for helping others.” Giving your time through volunteering isn’t just about supporting those in need — it can also be a deeply rewarding experience. From personal fulfillment to meaningful connections, volunteering offers countless benefits for older adults. Here are just a few of the rewards you can receive from volunteering, and how Broadview at Purchase College is making volunteering for seniors simple and enjoyable.

Broaden Your Social Connections

Volunteering is a fantastic way to expand your social circle and build meaningful relationships. By getting involved with a cause that resonates with you, you can spend time and connect with like-minded individuals who share your passions and values. For seniors, volunteering can contribute to a vibrant social life that extends beyond immediate neighbors, creating friendships and a strong sense of community.

Enjoy a Sense of Purpose

Dedicating your time to a cause you care about isn’t just fulfilling—it also brings valuable emotional and mental health benefits. Giving back serves as a reminder of your own strengths and capabilities, while also positively impacting others. When we help others, we remind ourselves of our own abilities for positive change, which can help reduce stress and alleviate symptoms of depression.

Stay Active, Both Mentally and Physically

Volunteering is an excellent way to keep both your body moving and your mind engaged. Learning new skills through volunteer activities promotes lifelong learning through learning new skills, helping to maintain cognitive function and potentially reducing dementia-related symptoms. On the physical side, volunteering encourages movement, supports cardiovascular health, and promotes healthy circulation — keeping your body active and regularly engaged.

Explore New Interests

Beyond skill-building, volunteering can open the door to new passions. Whether it’s through the organization itself or the people you meet along the way, donating your time can introduce you to hobbies and interests you might never have considered before,  keeping your mind engaged while adding excitement and purpose to your days.

Choosing Where to Volunteer

When deciding where to volunteer, start by considering your interests and abilities. Choosing a cause you’re passionate about can greatly improve your experience by making it both enjoyable and rewarding.

It’s also important to factor in your physical abilities and personal skills. Do you have experience in a specific field that could benefit an organization? Are you comfortable with hands-on activities, or would you prefer a setting that’s more relaxed? Being mindful of what suits you best ensures that volunteering remains both a pleasurable experience as well as a sustainable one.

Ideas for Volunteering in Purchase, NY

Residents at Broadview enjoy a wide range of convenient volunteering opportunities, all within easy access to home, such as:

Our well-established, innovative partnership with Purchase College, creating mentorships and connections between students and residents.

AmeriCorps Seniors offers a range of different programs to help connect volunteers ages 55 and older with local volunteer opportunities and non-profits. Organizations include the Foster Grandparent Program and the Retired & Senior Volunteer Program (RSVP). For ideas, check out the full list of RSVP-affiliated non-profits in Westchester County.

Local libraries, food banks, and afterschool programs are also always looking for volunteers to donate their time and share their passion!

Embrace the Best of Retirement at Broadview

Discover the perfect balance of active living and effortless comfort at Broadview, an innovative senior living community located right on campus at Purchase College. Stay engaged, make meaningful connections, and enjoy a lifestyle filled with activities and opportunities designed to match your interests. Schedule a tour today and experience firsthand our vibrant, engaging community!