Brock University Research highlights the need for volunteer support among Niagara’s Seniors and the benefits of Volunteering

Volunteerism as a Lifeline for Niagara’s Seniors: A recent study by Brock University has found that providing financial and logistical support to older adults in Niagara can help them stay connected and improve their well-being. According to the research, helping older adults volunteer more easily can combat loneliness and isolation, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. These supports could include offering transportation, internet access, and even financial rewards for their volunteer efforts.

The findings were published in a policy brief titled “Change in an Evolving Niagara: Navigating the Age-Friendly Communities Movement and Volunteerism”. Aliya Aragon, a fourth-year Health Sciences student, and Miya Narushima, an Associate Professor of Health Sciences at Brock University, co-wrote it. Their research draws on local, national, and international studies, including Niagara Connects and the World Health Organization (WHO) reports.

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The study focuses on the growing population of older adults in Niagara, defined as people aged 55 and above, and the barriers they face when trying to volunteer. Volunteering is identified as an essential way to combat ageism and reduce the isolation that many older adults face, particularly after the pandemic.

Growing Population, Fewer Volunteers

Despite the growing number of older adults in Niagara, research shows that fewer of them volunteer. Narushima points out that older adults, even those in their 70s and 80s, are valuable resources for the community. However, they often face obstacles, such as a lack of transportation or digital access, preventing them from participating in volunteer activities.

“People entering retirement, or those who remain active in their later years, have much to offer,” says Narushima. “However, many face barriers that stop them from volunteering, even though they want to stay involved in the community.”

Recommendations to Boost Volunteerism

The policy brief makes several recommendations to increase volunteer participation among older adults in Niagara. These include:

1. Creating a central location for volunteer opportunities: A place where older adults can easily find and access volunteer positions that match their interests, skills, and availability.
2. Setting up a service center for retirees: This center would allow retirees to offer their services part-time and flexibly. Employers would pay for the services provided by the retirees, ensuring they are compensated for their work.
3. Supporting transportation and internet access: Many older adults need assistance getting to volunteer locations or accessing opportunities online. This is especially true for those from marginalized or equity-deserving groups.
4. Developing a system of grants and rewards: A financial reward system could encourage more older adults to volunteer, making them feel appreciated for their efforts.

“Volunteering is not just about helping others,” says Aragon, “It also provides a safety net for older adults and has economic benefits that can help Niagara continue to grow.”

Addressing Social Isolation and Other Concerns

In addition to encouraging volunteerism, the study highlights the broader challenges older adults face in Niagara. Social isolation, a significant concern in a 2023 study by Narushima, is just one of the issues. Others include:

• Limited housing options: Many older adults struggle to find affordable and accessible housing in Niagara.
• Transportation difficulties: It becomes more challenging for older adults to participate in community life without adequate transportation.
• Access to information and the digital divide: A lack of internet access or digital literacy disconnects many older adults from opportunities and services.
• Accessibility of public spaces: Older adults need more public spaces accessible to those with mobility challenges.
• Quality of long-term care: Concerns about the availability and quality of long-term care options are growing among older adults.
• Poverty and employment issues: Many older adults face financial hardships, either due to a lack of retirement savings or difficulty finding work in later life.

As Niagara’s population becomes more diverse, older adults are also dealing with an increase in racism, xenophobia, and other forms of discrimination. Aragon emphasizes that these issues make supporting older adults and creating inclusive communities even more important.

Recommendations for the Age-Friendly Movement

The policy brief makes several suggestions to improve the lives of older adults in Niagara and strengthen the local age-friendly movement. These include:

• Providing financial and administrative support: Local governments, businesses, and organizations should back age-friendly initiatives with funding and resources to ensure they succeed.
• Focusing on inclusivity: Efforts to make communities age-friendly should also address the needs of younger citizens and those from diverse backgrounds. Inclusivity ensures that all residents can benefit from these programs.
• Considering the needs of equity-deserving groups: Older adults from marginalized groups need special consideration in community development plans to ensure they are not left behind.
• Creating programs that connect different generations: Bringing younger and older people together through community programs and services can foster understanding and reduce isolation.

Moving Forward

This research, funded partly by Brock University’s Match of Minds program, provides valuable insights into how Niagara can become a more age-friendly community. By encouraging older adults to stay involved through volunteer work and addressing the barriers they face, the region can support its aging population while benefiting from their experience and skills.

The next step is for local governments, businesses, and community organizations to take these recommendations and put them into action. As Narushima and Aragon point out, older adults have much to offer, and with the proper support, they can continue contributing to Niagara's well-being and growth.

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By focusing on inclusivity and accessibility and providing logistical and financial resources, Niagara can become a model for other regions facing similar demographic challenges.

For older adults in Niagara, the chance to volunteer isn't just about giving back — it's about staying connected, valued, and supported in a changing world. Don’t miss out on more updates—stay connected with Education Post News.