Active Aging

14 ACTIVE AGING WEEK | OCTOBER 3-9, 2022 Helping others, helping yourself BY JIM TIMLICK V olunteering is not only a great way to help others, but it's also an excellent way for older adults to boost their own wellbeing, says an advisor with Active Aging in Manitoba. "We've seen that over the years that volunteering helps to reduce mortality and people just feel better about themselves and that they're appreciated by the organization they're volunteering with," says Linda Brown, an active aging consultant with AAIM. "Feeling better about yourself really improves your overall health." There are other benefits, she adds. "Research shows that people who volunteer on a regular basis gain more health benefits. Not only do they tend to be more physically active, there's also the whole idea of mental wellness, engaging with people and feeling good about what they're doing and contributing." Brown says another reason members of the 55-plus crowd may want to consider volunteering is the fact it can provide a sense of renewed purpose to people who have recently wound down their careers and may be struggling to adjust to retired life. "A lot of times when people first retire, they don't know what to do or they don't have anything prepared for then they retire," she explains. ""Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and direction, especially for somebody who's newly retired. It provides structure and helps get that sense of purpose or direction back." CONTINUED ON PAGE 15 Volunteering is a great way to help others and make new friends. (Supplied photo) LEFT: The camaraderie that comes from volunteering results in wonderful memories and lasting friendships. RIGHT: Volunteers are always happy to dispense valuable fitness-related info at Active Aging events. (Supplied photos)

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