One of the best things older adults can do for their social health is volunteer if they’re able to do so in their community. I’ve covered this a little before, but I haven’t talked about it specifically in a while. This post focuses on more involved activities; for older adults with limited mobility, I may cover additional options in a separate post. Let me know below if you’d like to see that.
Schools
Volunteering at schools can be a great option for older adults because it’s typically indoors and climate-controlled, and it can be especially meaningful for grandparents with children in the school system. Supporting students through reading programs, office assistance, or classroom help can be fulfilling without being physically demanding, depending on the role.
Museums
Museums, as well as zoos and aquariums, often rely on volunteers to support educational programming and guest services. These nonprofit organizations are great options for older adults who enjoy history, art, or science. Many volunteer roles are indoors and focus on conversation and guidance rather than physical labor.
For those interested in finding reputable volunteer opportunities nationwide, the VolunteerMatch platform is a trusted resource that helps connect individuals with nonprofit organizations based on interests, location, and availability.
Local Events
Local events are another great way to get involved. Louisville hosts farmers markets, festivals, and seasonal events throughout the year, many of which depend on volunteers. These opportunities can be one-time commitments or recurring roles, making them flexible for older adults who prefer occasional involvement.
These recommendations may not be ideal for everyone, particularly those with limited stamina or mobility, and I’ll address additional options in a future post. Volunteering can play an important role in helping older adults stay connected, engaged, and supported within their communities.
Written by Brigid Coffey
