Originally published on healthnewstribune.com
When picturing retirement, many people feel intimidated by lack of activity and purpose, especially those used to a specific work schedule. People who are rounding the corner towards retirement often worry about how they will spend their time. Being held to a busy schedule for many years can make the adaptation to retirement difficult during times of boredom, loneliness, and feeling a lack of purpose.
Matthew Bussard, a Medicare specialist, says that there are numerous options for seniors to choose from when deciding how to spend their time. Bussard lists several ways seniors can spend their time finding meaning through helping their families and communities.
Volunteer at the Voting Booths
When the voting season comes around, seniors passionate about politics can support their community by volunteering at a local voting booth helping direct people, sign individuals in, and collect ballots. It is also a beneficial way to meet others who also like politics.
Plant Flowers
Planting flowers within a community is a great way to give back. Seniors who enjoy gardening or landscaping can reach out to their local Parks and Recreation Department to see if there is any need for flowers to be planted anywhere in the city.
Write Thank You Notes
Charities and non-profit organizations are always looking for volunteers for various reasons, and seniors who want to volunteer but might not necessarily be able to stand for long periods can help with tasks like writing thank-you notes. Seniors looking to help with writing cards specifically can reach out to local charities and ask if help is needed.
Read at the Library
Older adults who love to read might find enjoyment in reading aloud to children at the local library. Usually, libraries have children’s programs scheduled that welcome all at no cost. These programs might consist of a children’s author event, a craft, or a guest reader.
Donate to Bake Sales
For seniors who cannot seem to find enough people to bake for, volunteering to provide goods for a bake sale is a proactive way to get involved in the community. Some seniors who spend the majority of their retirement time baking build a sweet reputation from the mouths they feed. If that is the case, and a senior’s baked goods already have a fan group, seniors can offer to host bake sales of their own and pick a charity of their choice to donate funds made from bake sale profits.
Make Blankets, Hats, or Booties for Newborn Babies
Seniors who love to quilt, sew, knit, or crochet can give back to their community by making blankets, hats, or booties for babies just born. Multiple hospitals host programs that provide essentials to mothers and babies in need. Along with receiving necessities like diapers, including a homemade gift for the newborn baby ads a personal touch and a more meaningful item for mom and baby to take home
About Matthew Bussard
Matthew Bussard is a financial services broker offering support to Medicare users in Rhode Island. He is passionate about creating a difference in his clients’ lives by helping them enroll in Medicare with professionalism and care. Mr. Bussard volunteers with Medicare recipients at Oak Street Health Clinics, providing efficient, continual guidance to clients every step of the way. Matthew also participates in various charitable activities, including The Hunger Project, the MDRT Foundation, local clean-ups, and little league coaching. He donates to local charities and makes a difference in his community in every way possible.