Learning how to take care of yourself takes on new meaning when you get a little older. When you were going to school, starting a career, and raising a family you found life alternately frustrating and exhilarating, but I am guessing that you are missing all of that action now. Learning how to adjust and adapt to a senior lifestyle can be equally challenging, once you get used to the idea.
Motivation becomes more internalized when you get older, but it is still a concept that you can’t escape from. Without motivation there is no action, and without action there is no forward motion. Motivation isn’t always about losing weight or quitting smoking; it is about propelling yourself forward. When you were younger you always had something to motivate you. It may have been learning how to walk or to swim, getting a passing grade on a test or meeting a job deadline. What happens now that a deadline no longer exists? You still want your actions to be purposeful and you want them to be relevant to your needs, but what are you going to do? You still need a reason to get up every morning.
What motivates you? What is it that makes you eager to start your day? It may be that first cup of coffee in the morning, your four legged friend wanting a walk, or a student waiting for you to help him or her learn how to read. Let’s talk about what makes you do the many things that you do today.
An article in Generations (Winter 1999/2000) talked about volunteering as a way to jump start your life. Volunteerism isn’t for everyone, but it can be away of giving meaning to your life, and provide a way to pursue personal interests at the same time. Getting out of the house to do something useful is one way to provide structure in an otherwise unremarkable day. Studies show that nearly 50% of the adult population volunteers in one way or another, although it varies according to age. Surprisingly those aged 30-49 are the most likely to volunteer. Older adults log in at about 40% through the age of 70. These statistics disturbed me a little because I am not actively volunteering right now, although I don’t think it has anything to do with my age. I just haven’t gotten started yet, so don’t let your age be a deterrent. People over 75 actually volunteer the least, with more than 70% not volunteering at all due to changes in health, interest lack, or of appropriate transportation.
What motivates older people to volunteer? Just an appeal for help might not be enough of an incentive to turn a spark into a flame. Stuffing envelopes and doing generic tasks may not be enough of an incentive. Put yourself into the equation. Take a good look at what you hope to gain: social connections, new skills, or a safer neighborhood. People will volunteer much more enthusiastically if they find something that they are truly interested in. Do a “job” search when looking for a good match, whether it has to do with an Alzheimer’s foundation or a Wildlife Federation. Find out everything you can about the organization and decide if it meets your expectations. It is okay to say no if the organization doesn’t fit your needs. Shop around for the right fit. Researchers find that a sense of purpose is an important developmental need, well into later life. If you aren’t already immerse in writing your first novel or getting ready for a one man art show, perhaps a volunteer effort would fit into your future.
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