Investing time with others may be the new prescription for those who deal with depression. See today’s excerpt.
Studies of the relationship between volunteering and health demonstrate that there is a significant relationship between volunteering and good health: when older adults volunteer, they not only help their community but also experience
better health in later years, whether in terms of greater longevity, higher functional ability, or lower rates of depression. These findings are particularly relevant today as Baby Boomers-the generation of 77 million Americans born between 1946 and 1964- reach the age typically associated with retirement.
We know that Baby Boomers in their late 40s to mid-50s are volunteering at a higher rate than earlier generations did at the same age. However, efforts should be made to not only maintain current levels of volunteering among Baby Boomers, but to keep those Baby Boomers who already volunteer, serving in the future by providing substantial, challenging,
and fulfilling volunteer experiences. The results of such efforts will not only help solve community problems, but simultaneously enhance the health of the growing number of older adults.
Source: “The Health Benefits of Volunteering: A Review of Recent Research.” http://www.nationalservice.gov/