Squadron News - 2019 Archive
Volunteering Can Improve Your Health
Research shows that volunteering at least two hours a week over an extended period of time can be good for your health. Studies indicate that regular volunteering slows the cognitive decline of aging, as well as improving physical and mental health. The Wall Street Journal surveyed the research and appears to have identified a magic recipe for gaining the maximum health benefits of volunteering. The recipe has four key items:
• Physical activity (can be moderate as long as it’s regular)
• Cognitive activity (learning new skills or doing something outside your comfort zone)
• Socializing (opportunities to build connections and friendships)
• Persistence (more than an occasional activity; being a mentor, for example).