4 Summer Volunteering Ideas for Seniors With Limited Mobility and Hand Function

If you are searching for something meaningful to do this summer, volunteering in your community may be the perfect solution. Certain mobility or hand function limitations may mean that some projects you may have enjoyed as a younger adult may no longer seem a good fit. However, there are dozens of options that give seniors ways to give back to their communities. In fact, they are more likely to fit your current physical needs. Here are four volunteering opportunities that tend to work well for many seniors:

Local Animal Shelters 

Volunteering at your local animal shelter can be an excellent way to spend time with your favorite furry friends. Especially if having their own pets is not the best fit for their current situation. Seniors with limited mobility may be able to assist their local animal shelters in a wide range of ways. This includes playing with animals and meeting with families or individuals interested in adopting a pet. They can also do laundry or handle other light cleaning needs. 

Working With Children 

Seniors also have a wide variety of volunteering options for working with children. This can include those that may be close in age to their own grandchildren. Tutoring, assisting in classrooms or at a local library, babysitting, and other opportunities can present a good fit for seniors of nearly any mobility level. Spending time with children can be enjoyable for many seniors that are struggling with loneliness on their own. Doing so can assist children that may need a bit of extra help can be even more beneficial. 

Feeding America

Certain positions through Feeding America and local food banks can connect seniors with options for helping the people in their communities get the nutritious foods they need. Answering phone calls and handling light administrative tasks can be appropriate choices for many seniors, including those with limited mobility. 

Senior Corps 

Senior Corps is a nationwide government-based volunteer program designed for adults over age 55. It's an excellent starting point for seniors interested in volunteering but who do not have a specific project in mind. This program connects seniors with local opportunities carefully selected to fit the typical physical abilities of senior citizens while providing ways to fill specific needs in their communities. Senior Corps also offers several specific programs of its own. This includes the Foster Grandparent program and the Senior Companion program. 

At Senior Helpers of Charlotte, we are here to help seniors in Charlotte, Pineville, Concord, and nearby cities find meaningful ways to make a difference in their communities that fit their current mobility needs. Whether you are looking to volunteer for the first time this summer or are searching for a better fit for your current physical capabilities than an opportunity you enjoyed in the past, certain positions and organizations can be excellent choices for seniors. 

Contact us today to learn more about specific opportunities that may be available in your neighborhood. Find out the many ways choosing our in-home care program can help you continue to live the best life in your own home and stay active in your community!