December is a national giving month. It revolves around celebrating the generosity of giving back to the community to make a difference in society. While giving gifts spans back to the 15th century, National Day of Giving was founded in 2012 by United Nations Foundation in partnership with the 92nd Street Y.
Anyone can observe the month of giving even when they spend most of their time indoors. That means seniors with limited mobility or health limitations can fully participate in giving back to the community to better the lives of people around them. The benefits of taking part in national giving month are unmatched.
According to studies, seniors who participate in volunteerism have a better sense of purpose and improved overall health. Other benefits include:
- Seniors get to share their expertise
- Gives seniors a better sense of community
- It gives seniors new knowledge
- It boosts seniors' self-esteem
- It unlocks the senior's potential skills
List of Various Ways Seniors Can Celebrate National Giving Month While Still Indoors
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Knit for the Needy
Seniors who knit or crochet as a hobby can make items such as scarves, gloves, socks, or blankets for the homeless to keep them warm throughout the cold season. This way, senior loved ones can find a sense of purpose and satisfaction knowing they can give back to the community through their skills.
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Make Food
Cooking is a favorite pastime for most seniors. It helps stir up good old memories making it an excellent way to stimulate mental acuity, particularly for seniors with dementia. Seniors can bake or cook their favorite meals and have them share in shelters or on the streets with the homeless.
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Adopt an Animal
Seniors who love animals can help an animal find a loving home by adopting one from a nearby animal shelter. According to studies, interacting with animals helps lower stress and improve the overall health of pet owners. Alternatively, seniors can donate money to animal shelters to help cover the expenses of daily operations and animal housing upgrades.
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Share Knowledge
Seniors have a wealth of wisdom, experience, and knowledge. They can leverage different online delivery models such as podcasts, e-books, and social media to pass on useful information that can educate and create awareness in the community.
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Hand Write Thank you Notes for Charity
Most charity organizations show their appreciation to donors by handwriting thank you notes. Sometimes, keeping up with all their thank you notes to donors can be overwhelming, and they could use some help writing some. Seniors can reach out to any local charity and offer to help.
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Support a Child in Need
Helping a child in need is also an excellent way to give back to the community. Seniors can choose to:
- Give monetary donations
- Donate physical items such as learning materials, food, or clothes
- Share knowledge through online platforms
Let the Professionals Help
If you live in Erie, Warren, or the surrounding areas and are looking for in-home care services, we can help. At Senior Helpers Erie, we provide tailored home care services ranging from companion care for senior citizens who need daily assistance to in-depth specialized care for seniors with Alzheimer's, Dementia, Parkinson's, and other chronic diseases. Contact us today for more details.