Researchers led by University Distinguished Professor Manfred Diehl from the Department of Human Development and Family Studies found that older adults who view aging as a period of continued growth rather than physical decline are more likely to participate in volunteer work. However, the study found no evidence that perceiving aging as a source of social loss increases the likelihood of volunteering.

The team analyzed data from more than 4,500 adults aged 65 to 93 enrolled in the German Ageing Study over a nine-year period. The findings showed that individuals with more positive self-perceptions of aging were significantly more likely to volunteer regularly, while those with less positive views were less likely to do so. The researchers also found that volunteering itself did not lead to more positive perceptions of aging.

According to Diehl, volunteering offers numerous benefits, including a greater sense of purpose, stronger social connections, improved physical and mental health, and potentially longer life expectancy. It also provides substantial value to society, with adults over 50 contributing an estimated $92 billion annually to the U.S. economy through volunteer work. Even one or two hours of volunteering each week can positively impact overall well-being.

The findings were published in Psychology and Aging and are part of Diehl's ongoing research on self-perceptions of aging.

Source: https://chhs.source.colostate.edu/new-research-explores-relationship-between-volunteering-and-self-perceptions-of-aging/