Volunteering is a rewarding activity, one that’s available to everyone regardless of age or ability. And now research tells us that altruism and wellness go hand in hand. By helping others, you can be happier and healthier!

A study by the Corporation for National and Community Service found a significant connection between volunteering and good health.* The report showed that volunteers live longer, have higher functional ability, lower rates of depression, and less incidence of heart disease. In other words, volunteers help themselves to better health while helping others.

The valuable research suggests that volunteering is particularly beneficial to the health of older adults, as well as those serving 100 hours a year. Most noteworthy were these findings:

• A study of adults age 65 and older found that the positive effect of volunteering on physical and mental health is due to the personal sense of accomplishment an individual gains from his or her volunteer activities.
• Another study found that volunteering led to lower rates of depression in individuals 65 and older.
• A Duke study found that individuals who volunteered after experiencing heart attacks reported reductions in despair and depression—two factors that have been linked to mortality in post-coronary artery disease patients.
• Two other studies found that the volunteering threshold is about 100 hours per year, or about two hours a week. Individuals who reached the threshold enjoyed significant health benefits.

That’s great news for anyone already volunteering and even better for those seeking opportunities to become more involved in their communities.

Not sure where to start? The website www.getinvolved.gov will help you locate opportunities in your geographic area as well as your area of interest. You can also visit your local volunteer center for more ideas.

* Source: http://www.serve.gov