By Jenny Bradley
As we close out the year, our calendars will fill with festive gatherings, the exchange of holiday cards, and the joy of selecting gifts for our loved ones. However, amidst the hustle and bustle, it is important to embrace the true spirit of the season – being of service to others.
Beyond the invaluable support volunteers provide to nonprofits and organizations, research shows those delivering these services also reap a host of health benefits. Volunteers report reduced stress, anger and anxiety. Older adults involved in charitable activities also noted improved health and well-being, including lower blood pressure and a more optimistic outlook on life.
For example, at The Carlisle Naples, residents relish opportunities to serve both within the active retirement community and in Collier County.
“With all home maintenance taken care of along with the responsibilities of cooking and cleaning, there’s more free time to give back and be of service to others,” said Dory Hayden. “Our Zest Director organizes many charitable activities such as collecting school supplies for local students or raising funds for breast cancer research. It feels good when you can make someone else’s holiday brighter.”
The Carlisle also provides numerous avenues for residents to align their interests and passions with meaningful volunteer opportunities. For extroverted individuals who enjoy meeting new people, the community’s Welcoming Committee offers an ideal space to socialize and assist their newest neighbors get acclimated. On the other hand, the Resident Council, acting as a crucial liaison between residents and management, may be particularly appealing to those who are interested in actively contributing to the community’s overall well-being.
There are many ways to be of service this holiday season, even if you don’t live in a retirement community:
Share Your Expertise
Were you a former chairman or an accountant? Consider sharing your breadth of knowledge with entrepreneurs as they try to avoid the pitfalls of small business ownership. Organizations such as SCORE provide confidential business mentoring services and host workshops to help small business owners achieve success. Retired executives and CEOs are always welcome.
Become a Foster Grandparent
With families living further apart than previous generations, it’s not unusual for young adults to see their grandparents infrequently. Becoming a foster grandparent can be a rewarding experience for young and old alike. Intergenerational activities help bridge the gap between older adults and teenagers and shatter misconceptions about aging.
Tap into Your Hobbies
Seniors who enjoy knitting or crocheting will find their crafts can be enjoyed by more than just family and friends. From hospitals to oncology departments, many organizations welcome the donation of baby hats and lap blankets.
Support a Cause
Post-retirement is the perfect time to champion a cause that may be near and dear to one’s heart. Homelessness, education, women’s equality and accessibility to health care are just some areas in which older adults can lend their voice. A simple internet search will be able to locate a charity that addresses each respective issue. From making telephone calls to writing letters of support, there is a task for everyone looking to get involved.
Look Around – Opportunities Abound
Cuddling a premature baby in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), walking a dog at an animal shelter or greeting guests at a museum are just a few of the numerous tasks performed by volunteers across the country. Organizations such as Senior Corps and AARP are wonderful resources for matching older adults’ talents and interests with noteworthy charities in need of assistance.
Located at 6945 Carlisle Court in Naples, The Carlisle offers independent and assisted living lifestyles featuring spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and delicious dining with daily, chef-prepared specials. The community is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), an important distinction that provides residents with the assurance that the highest standards of quality care, services and safeguards are maintained.
For more information about the community, please call 239-249-3247 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.TheCarlisleNaples.com