VOLUNTEERISM AMONG THE ELDERLY - THE WAY TO PARTICIPATORY EMPOWERMENT

Abstract

Ageing is an inevitable and natural process of life for everyone. Ageing is not uniform and most people dread old age. But this daunting process of ageing, with its negatives, may be alleviated through the concept of volunteerism. The concept of 'volunteerism' by the elderly means that older persons offer their services, voluntarily, in their areas of skill, interest or expertise to an organization/individual/society that requires them.

Volunteerism is a great means of staying fit and healthy, both physically and mentally, even after the age of 60, by rendering voluntary, service for the development of society. Volunteerism helps in 'productive ageing' and 'participatory action', all of which enable a person to be healthy and active even in old age. It is in the hands of each of us to empower ourselves by staying busy and active, participating in some form of meaningful and worthwhile occupation/work, engaging the mind with certain challenging tasks and, most importantly, of being able to contribute to the development of society in general by providing help, relief and succor to those in need. Volunteerism helps in leading a
healthy and qualitative life, even in the golden eventide of one's life.