Volunteering assumes an especially important role among the elderly, particularly if they are retired, because it can inoculate, or protect them from the pitfalls of retirement, physical decline, and inactivity. Numerous studies have proven that, for retired seniors, volunteering is "serious leisure," a high-investment activity calling for discipline, time and the commitment of social obligation.
Social isolation -- the sense of not having anyone who is someone to you and not being someone to anyone -- is depressing. Studies have repeatedly shown that one of the key benefits of volunteering for seniors is social support. Volunteering among seniors in Canada has been linked to improved quality of life, stronger social networks, increased physical activity, increased life satisfaction and well-being, a sense of purpose, self-confidence, personal growth and lower mortality rates.
Eighty-three year old West Island resident Evelyn McOuat has been volunteering for the better part of 65 years and wouldn’t have it any other way.
“I’m a one-woman referral centre,” she says laughing. With both her parents and grandparents involved in volunteering, helping others came ‘natural’ to her, she explains.
Kathleen Greenfield, Coordinator of Volunteer Relations for Volunteer West Island, calls McOuat “a breath of fresh air and a real inspiration.”
“When I first moved to the West Island, over twenty-five years ago, and began to involve myself in volunteer work while raising my children, her name was everywhere and it still is. I think that one of the many gifts we receive from those older than we are is their example and how they serve as role models for us,” says Greenfield.
McOuat is a no-nonsense, highly opinionated woman with a delightful, albeit quirky, sense of humour. It’s easy to see why people in the West Island appreciate her many contributions. Involved in a number of volunteer senior organizations, many of which have members well over 90 years of age, she believes that the secret to dynamic senior living is to keep on going.
“Never stop trying things and being interested in current events,” she tells us. On the agenda this week in Beaconsfield were concerts, yoga demonstrations, dinner outings, an OPUS card information meeting, and much more.
“Sure it can sometimes be hard work, but I get the chance to get out of the house and do something for someone; it’s great to see people connect and respond to one another. God willing, as long as I can do this, I will.”
Over at Chateau Pierrefonds, Gisèle Legault St-Pierre is another vibrant example of a committed long-time helper. St-Pierre has been volunteering since the retirement residence opened in 1987. She comes every single week for bingo and communion and once a month for Chateau Pierrefond’s monthly concert and mass.
There are countless unsung heroes just like her in the West Island, quietly going about improving the lives of others –and by extension, their own- through their volunteer efforts.
“How does one keep from ‘growing old inside’ asked writer Robert Mcaffee Brown. “Surely only in community,” he replied. “The only way to make friends with time is to stay friends with people…” These seniors prove that adage to be true.
“It is one of the most beautiful compensations of this life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself” (Ralph Waldo Emerson). -
