5 Ways Boomers Are Making a Difference
Baby Boomers – the generation that was born between 1946 and 1964 – have been making a difference in their communities (and the world) practically since they were born. Now that they’re entering retirement and able to spend their time as they wish, they’re making waves in the volunteering world.
“In honor of August being Boomers Making a Difference Month, we’re focusing on helping our residents find volunteer opportunities that meet their interests, skills and talents,” says Michael Nitz, Director of Community Relations at Azpira Place of Breton. “Our community believes in the power of giving back, particularly because we’ve seen so much support from the greater community for us.”
Compared to previous generations, Baby Boomers are motivated to use their talents to improve their communities. According to the U.S. Census, more than 13 million seniors are actively volunteering today, and it’s expected that number will increase significantly as the youngest Boomers enter retirement.
“Even though COVID-19 is causing a shift in the way we give back and volunteer, there are still many ways seniors can volunteer in the Kentwood area,” says Michael.
Five Benefits of Volunteering
While making a difference is a strong enough reason to volunteer, there are also many personal benefits to dedicating your efforts to your community and to others. Volunteering actually helps you lead a healthier, better life with benefits such as:
- A longer life. Studies show that older adults – those aged 50 or older – have a longer lifespan than those who don’t volunteer. Some research has suggested that volunteering on a regular basis can increase lifespan by an average of five years.
- Improved mental health. Older adults who volunteer report lower levels of depression than their non-volunteering counterparts.
- Better physical abilities. Seniors who volunteer tend to have lower levels of disability and higher levels of activity than those who don’t donate their time and efforts.
- Higher rates of socialization. Volunteers have more social interaction with a varied group of people through their service.
- Lower pain levels. The vast majority of seniors – 75 percent of those polled – say that volunteering helps them control chronic pain.
Here are just a few ways Boomer volunteers in Kentwood can make a difference in their greater community.
1. Teach Adults (or Kids) to Read. The Literacy Center of West Michigan is committed to making West Michigan the region with the highest literacy levels in the nation. Volunteers can sign up for one-on-one tutoring, work-related classes and family literacy programming.
2. Care for Furry Friends. The Humane Society of West Michigan, the Kent County Animal Shelter and other great organizations provide opportunities for helping animals live their best lives and find their forever homes.
3. Protect the Great Outdoors. Have a green thumb, or prefer to spend your time in nature? Organizations such as Blandford Nature Center, the Howard Christensen Nature Center, the Ada Township Parks and Recreation Department and Growing Roots give seniors (and others) the opportunity to educate, conserve and play in the great outdoors.
4. Build a Better Future. Habitat for Humanity and other great organizations let seniors who are handy build houses and opportunities for underprivileged families in the Kent County area.
5. Care for Cancer Patients. Besides raising money for cancer research, Boomers can volunteer at places like Gilda’s Club Grand Rapids, P.O.R.T. at Helen DeVos Children's Hospital, Camp Casey and others provide support and caring for families, children and individuals with cancer.
Volunteering at Azpira Place® of Breton
“There are many opportunities and programs available within our community for individuals who wish to volunteer,” says Michael. “Our assisted Living residents are some of our greatest volunteers, actually. Many of them volunteer their time to assist with and help out our Memory Support individuals. But beyond that, many of our programs are led or organized by our residents themselves. Azpira Place is all about the VIVA! philosophy, which means making the most of every day. We encourage our residents to Live Well, Age Well, Be Well! A big part of that is helping them chase their dreams and desires, which include finding amazing opportunities to donate their time and efforts.”
If you have any questions about how Boomers can make a difference in their communities, or to learn more about life at Azpira Place® of Breton, please contact us at 616-259-5526.
Live Well. Age Well. Be Well.
At Azpira Place® of Breton, located in Kentwood, MI, we’re redefining how seniors Live Well. Age Well. Be Well. Our lifestyle is far from “typical.” Our vibrant and engaging Assisted Living and uplifting A Knew Day® Memory Support inspires our residents to live passionately with purpose every single day
Each day, our residents find the person-centered support and care they need, all while enjoying an inspiring and engaging lifestyle. The need for care or support doesn’t stop our residents from wanting to be active, involved or engaged, and it especially doesn’t keep them from obtaining the lifestyle they desire and deserve. With a variety of spacious private apartment floor plans, constant access to good company, exciting services and amenities, delicious dining experiences and life-enriching programming, residents never have to worry about having nothing to do. There’s always something waiting for them just outside their door! And best yet, if they desire space and privacy, there’s also plenty of room for that, too! Spend time outdoors in the sunshine, read a favorite book in the library, take your pet for a walk or simply relax in your private apartment, the possibilities are endless!
At Azpira Place of Breton, residents never have to worry about maintenance, housekeeping or the tasks of homeownership. We created our community so our residents could have the peace of mind of care while focusing on what really matters, what makes them who they are. With engaging VIVA!SM programming by Pathway to Living®, residents can spend their newfound time learning something new, enjoying an old pastime, taking up a new hobby, starting their own classes and clubs or focusing on their health with our wellness programming. Experience the lifestyle you deserve and discover the key to what helps Azpira Place of Breton residents Live Well. Age Well. Be Well.
To learn more or schedule a personal visit, call us at 616-259-5526.