Live Long & Happy!

Did you know that volunteers live longer and are happier? Research conducted at University of Michigan and Cornell University on health benefits specific to older volunteers indicate that older people who volunteer live longer than those who do not.

Volunteering is a hallmark of healthy, productive societies. Whether through at an agency, house of worship, or less formally by neighbors helping neighbors, volunteers address a huge range of issues in local communities, making them better places in which to live and work.

Studies also show that engaging in regular volunteer work increases life expectancy because social interaction improves quality of life. In fact, volunteering improves physical and mental health for people of all ages. In a study of women over a 30-year period, those who were involved in volunteer activities retained higher levels of functional abilities as compared with non-volunteers (additional research reported by the Corporation for National and Community Service (April 2007).

The RSVP Program at the Volunteer Center specializes in matching seniors with rewarding, challenging and interesting volunteer opportunities. RSVP provides direction for a multitude of options. Visit RSVP on the web or call 201-489-9333.

As the old saying goes, today is the first day of the rest of your life, so start living longer NOW!