Evidence of the benefits that volunteering can bring older people continues to roll in. "Volunteers have improved physical and social functioning," said Fengyan Tang, an assistant professor at the University of Pittsburgh School of Social Work, who has 21 older volunteers. "They report better well- being and greater life 22 . There"s a reduced risk of death compared to non-volunteers."
It was reported a few weeks back on a public school program 23 volunteers, in a small-scale initial study, appeared to 24 their risk of cognitive (认知的) decline.
25 we"re also learning that not all volunteering is created equal. In Dr. Tang"s most recent study, 26 in The Gerontologist , she 27 207 volunteers (average age: 72) who spent 28 average six hours a week on programs providing 29 services as preparing meals or teaching computer skills.
The results 30 how important the programs" organization and administration can be. Volunteers reported greater "socioemotional benefits"—a sense of having made important 31 , feelings of enhanced well-being—when the programs 32 greater "organizational support."
What"s organizational support Thoughtfully 33 volunteers with jobs that interest them. Offering training so that volunteers feel 34 with the work environment, the 35 , the task, the possible challenges 36 . volunteering more convenient for older people by providing parking or transportation, 37 small stipends (薪金). Recognizing their efforts 38 s or awards.
"Organizational support is more important than the individual characteristics of the volunteer, 39 longer participation and greater benefit," Dr. Tang said. Seniors and families looking for engaging volunteer opportunities, and programs hoping to 40 and retain older volunteers, take note.