Volunteering: It's the Right Time

You may have some extra time…a lot of love to share…unique talents perfected over years of practice…or the urge to give to a world that has shaped your life's journey. It might just be the perfect time for you to consider incorporating volunteerism into your daily schedule.

In honor of National Volunteer Week (April 19-25), it's important to encourage volunteerism, especially among our wisest and most experienced generation—older adults.

The primary benefit of volunteering comes from the feeling of helping others, but there are personal benefits that volunteers, particularly older adults, receive as well:

• Learning and developing a new skill. One thing is for sure—older adults have a solid set of skills gained from years of experience. It may be time to sharpen some of those old skills, or learn a new one, to help others in need. You are never too old to learn something new.

• Being a part of the community. Sometimes older adults can begin to feel separated from their communities. Who are all of these young faces? What are some of the new community programs? Volunteerism keeps you in the loop, feeling a part of something positive.

• Increased mental functioning. Doing the same thing day in and day out can lead to dulling mental capabilities. Add some variety to your senses by partaking in a new experience. Choose a volunteer program that keeps you engaged and interested.

• Meeting a diverse range of people. You are never too old to meet new friends or to become a mentor to a child or teenager. People of all backgrounds, ages and educational levels are looking to connect with someone who can guide them through situations and offer advice and companionship.

• Reduced self-concern. It's easy to get caught up in the little ways that life is getting tougher, such as decreased mobility or the health of loved ones. Volunteerism has a funny way of putting life in perspective and reminding us of all of our blessings. You always get more than you give!

• Escaping from life’s daily routine. Even if you are a caretaker at home, volunteering may provide an outlet for stress-relief as well as personal time. Getting out of your home environment may benefit you just as much as your service is benefiting others.

There are an abundant amount of volunteer opportunities in the Pittsburgh region, from animal care to food banks to youth programs. To find your ideal volunteer match, the Internet is a valuable source. Check out www.volunteermatch.org or www.volunteer.gov/gov/.

In the medical/spiritual realm, Celtic Healthcare, a leading home healthcare and hospice services provider, provides volunteers the chance to play a vital role in patient care. Celtic Healthcare’s hospice volunteers provide an invaluable service to those who are nearing the end-stage of their lives, and to their family members. Participating in truly sacred outreach, Celtic's volunteers are fully trained to better support the patient and their family. Volunteers receive training in matters from medical issues to spiritual concerns to psycho-social issues to bereavement.

It may just be the right time to share some of your strengths, skills and heart. For more information on volunteer opportunities with Celtic Healthcare, please call 1-800-355-8894 or visit www.celtichealthcare.com.