Good Lifestyle

Each new stage of life is delivered with different challenges and growth opportunities. In fact, according to the famous psychoanalyst Erik Erikson , known for his influential theory On psychological development, there are eight distinct stages of life, each defined by a conflict or a central crisis. In the seventh stage of development, Erikson argues that we must all work to find ways to be productive and restore to others to avoid a stagnant period marked by a lack of growth. And experts say that one of the best ways to resolve this inner conflict and feel happier after 50 years is to volunteer.

"From the promotion of cognitive sharpness to the reduction in the risk of loneliness and depression, these experiences contribute not only to personal growth but also to the well-being of the community in the broad sense," said Ryan Sultan , MD, psychotherapist and professor, and director of Psychological IT and integrative mental health At Columbia University in New York. "The integration of these activities into daily life can create a rich tapestry of experiences, relationships and personal development that supports general well-being in the stages of subsequent life."

You don't know where to start? Read more for the 10 best volunteer ideas if you are over 50, according to experts.

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10 Best Volunteering Ideas after 50

1. Mentor

As you are 50, you have probably raised a wealth of wisdom and expertise in your field. Sharing this with people of younger generations can be significant for both mentor and mentoring, explains the sultan. In fact, he notes that mentoring "improves self -esteem, nourishes social connections and promotes a sense of objective and development".

Steve Carleton , LCSW, Caciii, an approved clinical social worker and the executive clinical director of Detoxification of Gallus , should that the elderly "can offer precious information and advice to those who start in their careers or seek to make a change."

2. Community cleaning

Kristie TSE , MA, LMHC, NCC, an authorized mental health advisor with Discover mental health advice , says that another excellent way to volunteer by the age of 50 is to reach community cleaning. She notes that because you can participate around your own schedule and you can do it at a quiet pace, this is an opportunity you can start permanently.

"It helps you make movement in your day, allows you to meet new people and makes you feel good to see your community clean," says TSE.

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3. Community gardening

Spending time outside in the wild can help stimulate your mental health, increase feelings of calm and well-being, says Laura Herman , specialist in seniors and dementia at Safer superior care . By spending your time to volunteer in a community garden, you will appreciate this advantage and more. AE0FCC31AE342FD3A1346EBB1F342FCB

Sultan says that volunteer gardening opportunities "also provide physical exercises, encourage community engagement and promote a feeling of pride and accomplishment", adding that it "allows creativity, collaboration and contributes to the embellishment of local districts ".

4. Senior centers

Experts agree that if you read the elderly, whether you help them with activities or hold them in company, volunteering in a senior center can be particularly significant for people over 50.

"Visiting a memory care community, a long -term care establishment or a volunteer through an organization of palliative care can be an extremely rewarding means of spending a few hours a week," explains Herman. "The opportunity to connect with people in this difficult but often sacred time of life can be deeply fulfilled spiritually."

Sultan notes that those who volunteer in senior centers are also likely to build their own empathy and compassion thanks to experience. "It improves social ties, reduces feelings of loneliness and can lead to personal growth by helping others at similar stages of life," he explains.

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5. Animal shelters

The Sultan says that animal care "promotes emotional well-being, provides the company and strengthens empathy and compassion".

In addition to all the ways in which volunteers with animals can benefit You, You will also feel good to know that you make a difference in the life of the animals themselves.

"Volunteers can help animal shelters by playing with animals, walking them or helping for fundraising and adoption events," notes Carleton. "Animal rescue organizations always need compassionate people to promote animals or provide them with temporary houses while they are waiting to be adopted."

6. Food banks

Helping to meet the basic needs of others can be a deeply enriching experience. This makes volunteer in a food bank an excellent opportunity for people of all ages. However, TSE says there are a handful of advantages that can appeal to those over 50 in particular.

"I think this type of volunteer is good for those who have more than 50 bring a feeling of comfort and can show a lot of compassion," she explains. "You can also have an overview of what your community is going through, and this could lead you to find other volunteer opportunities in your local community."

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7. Children's programs

Spending time with children thanks to volunteering can help you reconnect with your younger side, while having an impact on the younger generations.

"Working with young people is a great way for people over 50 to restore their communities. They can volunteer to direct activities, such as training teams or help with programs after school , which offers young people essential advice and support, "explains Carleton.

Tutoring or reading children in schools and local libraries is another excellent way to volunteer with children. "Make promoting a love of reading and learning in the next generation is enough rewarding for many people, but hearing the laughter of children and seeing joy on their faces makes this opportunity for volunteering invaluable," explains Herman.

8. Rescue efforts in the event of a disaster

Not everyone is able to drop what they do and get involved in a longer -term volunteer opportunity. However, retirees can be ideally ready to make a difference in the emergency scenarios in the event of a disaster, as they may have more time available.

Sultan says that it can also be a deep transformative to volunteer for relief from disasters. "Helping help efforts in the event of a disaster draw on a deep feeling of altruism and desire to make a tangible difference," he said Better life . "He creates a feeling of community and teamwork, improves self-efficacy and creates an intense feeling of contributing to the greater good."

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9. Community leadership roles

Many retirees report that they find it difficult to lose their social ties with colleagues and others after having stopped working. Getting involved in your local community is a way to create new social connections, while offering you a feeling of objectives and goal.

"People over 50 often have the knowledge and experience necessary to assume leadership roles in their communities," explains Carleton. "They can serve as members of the board of directors of non -profit organizations, carry out campaigns for political candidates or even work with local businesses to create volunteer initiatives. As they already have a good life experience, they can be great resources for their communities. ""

10. Environmental projects

Regarding the environment, we should all lend a hand - and taking into account the state of global warming, this will no longer become urgent than time.

"The environment always needs protection and volunteers can help by participating in beach cleanings, planting trees or in main ecological initiatives," explains Carleton. "This type of volunteer offers the opportunity to work outside, meet new people and make a real difference in the world. This can be very useful both for the environment and for those over 50 . "