Impact of Volunteering on Quality of Life for Older Adults

This research article presents findings from a study conducted by Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) and Duke-NUS Medical School, focusing on the effects of volunteering on the quality of life among older adults in Singapore. The study involved 2,887 participants aged 60 and above, revealing that older adults who volunteer perceive greater social support and report improved quality of life compared to non-volunteers. The research highlights that while volunteering does not necessarily expand social networks, it enhances perceived support and personal mastery, particularly when done regularly in structured settings. The study emphasizes the importance of volunteering as a means to supplement traditional family support systems, especially in the context of Singapore's aging population and changing family dynamics. The findings aim to inform the design of volunteering programs that maximize benefits for older adults, aligning with national initiatives for successful aging.