Volunteer Terry Pellegrino is 95 and going strong serving patients and families at the North Pinellas Care Center.
It’s well known how volunteering can make you happy, but did you know it can make you healthier?
Many studies have linked volunteering to better health and wellness for people of all ages and health conditions. Cleveland Clinic blog recently reported findings that volunteering, giving emotional support to others and donating can improve physical and mental health including:
- Lower blood pressure
- Increased self-esteem
- Less depression
- Lower stress levels
- Longer life
- Greater happiness
*Credit: Why Giving is Good for Your Health: Studies document the ‘helper’s high’. By Wellness Team.
A recent UnitedHealth Group study showed how those who volunteered experienced a variety of health benefits including:
- 76% of people who volunteered in the last twelve months say that volunteering has made them feel healthier.
- 94% of people who volunteered in the last twelve months say that volunteering improves their mood.
- 78% of people who volunteered in the last 12 months say that volunteering lowers their stress levels.
- 80% of the people who have volunteered in the past 12 months say that they feel they have control over their health.
About a quarter of the people who have volunteered in the past 12 months say that volunteering has helped them to manage a chronic illness.
*Credit: Doing good is good for you: 2013 Health and Volunteering Study.
Director of Volunteer Services Kathy Roble
At Empath Health, many older volunteers have benefited healthwise from volunteering, says Kathy Roble, director of volunteer services. Their service boosts their satisfaction and helps them stay active while making a difference in their community.
“Over the years, our volunteers have expressed that volunteering provides a purpose in their lives and a reason to keep moving. Many volunteers are older and have aches and pains associated with the aging process, yet week after week they return to provide support to our patients, families and staff. So many have said that through their volunteer work they receive much more than they give,” Kathy said.
Start your path to a healthier you in 2015. Sign up to volunteer.
Learn more about the volunteer opportunities at Empath Health.