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According to research sourced by USA Today, someone who retires at 65 has about a 15% lower risk of developing dementia compared to someone retiring at 60. But say you’ve already retired, or are simply finished with working in a traditional way. One of the best methods to staying sharp as a senior is to volunteer in your local community. Volunteering is excellent for building new relationships, giving back, and staying alert after retirement.
Where
There are many resources online to find local volunteering prospects, like VolunteerMatch and DoSomething. However, you might also consider joining your local Kiwanis, Rotary, or Lions chapter. There, you’ll not only join in on current volunteer projects with your peers, you can also network and form friendships.
What
Look for volunteering opportunities that align with your interests, but also consider how much time you want to commit. For example, volunteering at a local Boys and Girls Club is something you will make into a habit. If you want to volunteer only in certain months, look for more seasonal or temporary opportunities.
Benefits
According to the Senior Citizen’s Bureau, the health benefits for seniors who volunteer are outstanding. Research conducted by Carnegie Mellon sourced by the Senior Citizen’s Bureau found that adults over 50 volunteering regularly were less likely to develop high blood pressure than those who didn’t volunteer. Many senior citizens also find that volunteerism leads to a reduction in stress simply from the feeling of giving back to the community. As little as one hundred hours a year can have proven benefits to wellbeing.
Volunteering as a senior has manifold benefits, but easing financial stress can also bolster wellness. Do you have a life insurance policy that is no longer valuable to you? If this is the case, did you know you can sell that policy for more than the cash surrender value? This is called a life settlement, or a viatical. Having that extra money can mean a world of difference to your retirement. Contact Life Settlement Advisors to see if you qualify today!
Case Study:
Henry, a retired executive, had been married to Joan for 45 years before she passed away. Henry purchased a life insurance policy several years ago that he no longer needed.
Henry discovered he could sell his policy for $78,000 and used the proceeds to check off some items on his bucket list.
