Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
By Greg Pascucci
Research shows there are a wealth of health benefits associated with volunteering. Giving of one’s time and talents instills a sense of purpose, increases physical and mental wellness and has even been tied to longevity. April is National Volunteer Month, dedicated to honoring volunteers and encouraging volunteerism.
At The Carlisle Naples, thanks to the active retirement community’s maintenance-free lifestyle, residents find they now have time to volunteer with organizations they find near and dear to their hearts. For many, that involves intergenerational programs. A group of volunteers will ‘strut the runway’ for a Charity Fashion Show & Luncheon on Thursday, April 25th at noon and the public is invited to attend.
The annual event raises money for Sabal Palm Elementary School. The Carlisle Naples has a long-standing relationship with the school, hosting students throughout the school year. Proceeds from the Charity Fashion Show & Luncheon will be used to fund a “wish list” created by the school for projects that benefit students.
This year, the community has partnered with Casual Connection, a local boutique offering contemporary women’s fashion apparel and accessories and residents will model the season’s hottest trends. There will also be live entertainment and a sumptuous luncheon, expertly prepared by The Carlisle’s culinary team.
A donation of $25 is suggested and tickets can be purchased in advance from The Carlisle, located at 6945 Carlisle Court (off Airport-Pulling Road).
Research continues to show that when young and old come together to form fun, meaningful relationships, both generations reap a wealth of emotional and physical benefits including improved self-esteem and overall health.
There are numerous ways you can give back and reap the many benefits associated with volunteering:
• Reach out to the Local Library
Libraries are always in need of volunteers to read aloud to preschoolers. Older adults who are retired are perfect for this role which typically requires mid-
morning hours. You’ll have the satisfaction of knowing you’re playing a critical role in getting the youngsters prepared for school.
• Share Your Expertise
Were you a former chairman or a corporate executive? Why not share 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 welcomed.
• 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, there are many organizations that can make use of baby hats and lap blankets.
• Support a Cause
Post-retirement is the perfect time to champion a cause which may be near and dear to one’s heart. Homelessness, education, women’s equality and accessibility to health care are just a few of the 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 spacious one-and two-bedroom residences, weekly housekeeping and flat linen services, basic cable TV, all utilities except telephone, and a complimentary full breakfast plus choice of lunch or dinner in the community’s gourmet-style restaurant. For more information about the community, please call 239-221-0017 or visit www.TheCarlisleNaples.com.
The Carlisle, a luxury, resort-style senior living community in North Naples, offers both Independent and Assisted Living lifestyles. Available on a monthly fee basis, the ECC-licensed and CARF-accredited community boasts a full range of services and amenities including 12-hour restaurant dining, housekeeping, transportation and activities. Located on Airport-Pulling Road, between Pine Ridge and Immokalee Roads, the award-winning community’s lush tropical environment is highlighted with meandering walking paths around three lakes and tranquility gardens. For more information or to schedule a tour, please call Director of Marketing Greg Pascucci at 239-221-0017.
Luxury Rental Retirement Living
6945 Carlisle Court, Naples, FL 34109
239-221-0017 . www.srgseniorliving.com