Finding Elderly and Retired Volunteer Opportunities in NJ

As people age, socializing and finding worthwhile things to do can be difficult. Long after children have grown up, gone to college, and gotten married, many elderly and retired people may be in search of something both meaningful and social to do. However, some seniors may worry that, based on their level of mobility, that they may not be able to volunteer. This isn’t so. In fact, there are a few different organizations that are committed to providing volunteer work for seniors that is a perfect match for everyone.

Benefits of Volunteering

There are quite a few reasons that volunteering is a good thing. First of all, senior volunteer programs can help combat depression. It can get quite lonely, especially if a senior is aging in place gracefully at home. Also, volunteering also bridge the generation gap and will keep seniors in contact with the younger generation. Volunteering will also promote at least some type of physical activity, which is good not only for physical health but also mental health. Volunteering when retired is recommended for many reasons.

How to Find Elderly and Retired Volunteer Opportunities: Organizations

Especially if the senior in question doesn’t have internet access or isn’t adept with computers, it may be difficult to find a good volunteering match without just going through the telephone book. However, there a few agencies dedicated to volunteer opportunities for senior citizens that can help match the senior with the right elderly volunteer opportunities. Some of these include:

• Senior Corps: This is a national group with many different chapters in New Jersey. It is specifically designed for seniors age 55 and over who are interested in volunteering.
• AARP Volunteer match: This is a subsection of the popular website Volunteer Match, but is associated with AARP and focuses only on elderly and retired volunteer opportunities.
• Volunteer New Jersey: This organization doesn’t have any age restriction and is solely focused on volunteer opportunities in NJ, but it can help seniors get matched up well with the right opportunities for them.

How to Find Elderly and Retired Volunteer Opportunities: Focused Organizations

If you are a senior or know a senior who may be interested in participating in a particular special interest, there are volunteer opportunities that don’t go through an outside organization and have a sharper focus. Some of these retired volunteer opportunities include:

• Senior Companion Program: This is available through Senior Corps, and pairs seniors up with other seniors who are struggling with daily tasks and day-to-day living.
• Medicare fraud volunteer: Senior volunteers are needed to help prevent Medicare fraud and abuse. This position is offered through SMP of New Jersey.
• Foster Grandparent Program: This program pairs seniors with teenagers or young children who need a mentor. Many of the children have special needs. This is offered through Senior Corps as well.

For more information about how mobility products such as stair lifts and wheelchair ramps can help improve quality of living, contact Williams Lift Co. today. We want patients and caregivers both to live their best lives.