Volunteering by older adults in the United States

Abstract

Traditionally, the United States is considered a nation of volunteers. Volunteerism is deeply rooted in the country's cultural and political institutions, and institutionalized volunteering is a distinguished feature. Federal policies and initiatives have played a significant role in creating and supporting senior volunteering programs. Older Americans engage in structured volunteer work through organizations, are involved in a wide array of volunteer activities, and demonstrate that they are capable and effective in various roles. Volunteer organizations are positioned to engage older adults from various socioeconomic backgrounds and to facilitate volunteer role performance. Through the provisions of access, information, incentives, and facilitation, organizations can promote volunteer engagement. As the baby boomer generation ages, there will be a large pool of potential older adult volunteers among the American population. Given the potential resources embedded in the increasingly large older population, much can be done to expand volunteering by older adults. Volunteering holds great promise for productive engagement among older Americans. © 2010 Taylor & Francis.