Slow Down Your Biological Aging with Just One Hour of Volunteering a Week
Did you know that volunteering for just one hour a week can lead to slower biological aging? A recent study published in Social Science and Medicine found that volunteering is linked to slower biological aging, which can add not just more years to your life but more life to your years.
Biological age refers to the age of a body’s cells and tissues, and volunteering can have a significant impact on this. The study found that volunteering’s effect on biologic aging is multifactorial, with physical, social, and psychological benefits. Volunteering can include physical activity, social connections, and a sense of purpose, all of which can decrease stress and improve cognitive function.
The Benefits of Volunteering
In addition to slowing down biological aging, volunteering can also provide a sense of purpose, improve mental health, and give you a psychological lift. It can also boost your social connectedness and help you make a positive impact on your community.
Family Volunteering
Volunteering is not just beneficial for individuals, but also for families. When families volunteer together, they can strengthen their bonds and create lasting memories. Children who volunteer are more likely to volunteer as adults and can develop compassion, tolerance, and important life skills.
Getting Started
If you’re interested in volunteering, there are many ways to get started. Consider what issues you’re passionate about, what your children’s ages are, who you’d like to help, and what you enjoy doing together as a family. You can also search for volunteer opportunities on platforms like VolunteerMatch, Kids That Do Good, and Doing Good Together.
Causes to Consider
There are many causes to consider when volunteering, including:
- Homelessness: Collect toiletries, give art and school supplies, and provide clothing and transportation.
- Hunger: Have a canned food drive, make bag lunches for kids in a homeless shelter, and have a party with an entrance fee of a can of food.
- The Elderly: Adopt a grandparent, deliver food, and provide transportation for medical appointments.
By volunteering just one hour a week, you can make a positive impact on your community and slow down your biological aging. So why not get started today?