Donner du temps pour les autres mais aussi pour soi

Abstract

Today, four million French people of over 60 are carrying out voluntary work though associations, sometimes through several at a time. They are also volunteering in schools, town halls, churches, unions and political parties. They are about 6 to 7 million: that is to say about one French person out of two aged over 60! Concerned about being good citizens and helping others, they are creating social links whilst at the same time giving direction to their own lives, finding a better equilibrium and perhaps even better health according to some recent studies. Thus a lucky convergence is taking place between greater availability, strong altruism, the wish for continued personal fulfilment and the increasing expectations of society such as supporting fragile people, training young people and taking them to their sporting, cultural and leisure activities. There is a lot at stake both individually and collectively which deserves to be taken into account by public authorities and social partners in order to accompany everyone in this stage of life. © Fond. Nationale de Gérontologie.