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As the oldest baby boomers move closer to retirement, studies indicate that approximately one-third have intentions to participate in community service.

Although one would think that individuals volunteer in greater numbers once they retire, as a general rule, the percentage of those giving of their time actually peaks at mid-life and then gradually declines. At the same time, Americans who do volunteer during their early years of retirement do it with greater frequency than younger volunteers.

A recent study by the Harvard School of Public Health followed 1,200 elderly adults over a seven-year period and found those that volunteered even a little, lived longer than those who didn’t.

“We have many regular volunteers at Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly who are age 60 and over that help other elders by delivering meals, setting up special events at our local chapters and providing friendly visiting,” comments Liz Drew, executive director of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly, with headquarters in Chicago.

Take Anne and Lou Yauss of Cincinnati, a couple in their seventies who knows first hand the value of volunteering. They have been contributing their time and support to Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly since the local chapter was launched in 1997. Nona Hanson, age 75, of Minneapolis has seen the benefits of sharing her skills and imparting her knowledge and wisdom through the nonprofit organization’s Elders Counseling Elders program.

Older Americans like Hanson and the Yauss’ can create a social legacy much like the early years of President John F. Kennedy’s call-to-service. As reported by the Harvard School of Public Health, other research has demonstrated that social connectedness, remaining actively engaged in the community, is a key to healthy aging.

What can you do to get involved as a volunteer with local organizations?

1. Think of the skills you have developed over the years in a job you had previously or are currently involved. Whether it’s healthcare, finance, social service or education, the experience you have can lend a boost to a variety of nonprofit or civic organizations in your community.
2. Look beyond job skills to hobbies and other inspirational areas of your life. You have a lifetime of experiences to share with others that can leave a lasting legacy on future generations.
3. Don’t wait for organizations to come looking for you. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce to get listings of nonprofit and other volunteer-oriented organizations in your area. For instance, Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly has nine chapters throughout the United States (www.littlebrothers.org).
4. Evaluate the time commitment you can make and decide if you want a short-term (i.e., helping out charitable organizations with special events) or a long-term commitment (i.e., making daily or weekly visits to elderly or disabled residents).
5. Dismiss the image of volunteers as those that having nothing else to do. Whether you are working part-time, full-time or not at all, you are part of a generation that is educated, motivated and able to leave a positive mark on society.

Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly has been touched by the kindness of Oprah Winfrey! As part of a special “Pay It Forward Challenge” show in November, Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly was one of the many nonprofit organizations to benefit from the Oprah Show’s challenge asking guests to use a $1000 bank card to give back to their communities.

Thanks to the kind hearts of Wendy Ralph of Chicago and Sharon Valasquez of Miami, Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly received an unexpected visit from the Oprah Show guests. Sharon used all of her $1000 to underwrite an elegant sit-down Thanksgiving feast for 58 seniors in Florida’s Miami area and jumpstarted a charge to bring in 30 new volunteers to help out at the Miami chapter of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly. At the same time, Wendy used a portion of her money to buy a microwave open, winter jacket and new bedding for seniors at the Cincinnati chapter of Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly. It was a truly heartwarming moment for all those involved and one that won’t soon be forgotten by those at Little Brothers – Friends of the Elderly.

One really is the loneliest number, no matter what your age. Once thought of as affecting primarily the elderly, loneliness is a growing problem in America.

The U.S. Census Bureau reports that more than 10 million Americans 65 or older live alone. Even as many remain independent and active, there are a growing number of seniors that feel isolated and lonely. According to a recent American Sociological Review report, the average American has only two close friends in whom they would confide on important matters. In addition, the U.S. Census reveals that one out of four households (27.2 percent) consists of just one person. These factors have contributed to a growing number of Americans who experience social isolation or loneliness.

"People that lack a solid social network of family and friends or have few social skills to develop relationships are more likely to experience loneliness and in turn isolation," says Liz Drew, national executive director of Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly. "This is especially true with our elderly friends who are often faced with little or no family in the area, friends who have passed away or health conditions that restrict them from getting around."

Loneliness can mean different things to different people, but in all cases it is a situation that can be improved through positive intervention. Whether you know someone who is experiencing loneliness or would like to make efforts in your own life to promote a better sense of belonging for yourself, here are a few suggestions:

1. Make an "appointment" with a family member or friend to talk weekly. If you set aside a designated time, you're more likely to make it a part of your regular routine and something to look forward to. It's also a great way to check in on someone and their well being.

2. Look for community activities and organized groups that appeal to your interests, hobbies and age group. For instance, civic organizations, service groups, and religious services provide an opportunity to meet new people that have common interests and are from your area. For older Americans, Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly is a national network of non-profit organizations that provides social services, home visits, social gatherings and companionship to those who are lonely and isolated.

3. Introduce yourself to neighbors and people you come in contact with on frequent errands, walks or other interactions. Don't be afraid to say "hello" to someone as it can put a smile on your face and the faces of others around you.

4. Whether you are working or retired, think of the skills and knowledge you can provide to others in your community. Volunteer your time at local schools, park districts, libraries or other community facilities and you will walk away feeling more fulfilled and making new friends of different ages.

5. Remember that it is not the quantity of relationships you have, but the quality that counts. When you are socializing with others, take the time to get to know the person you are with and develop a more trusting relationship. For example, there is a matched volunteer program with Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly that connects seniors with a "friend" that visits them on a regular basis and develops a longstanding relationship. All services are offered to the elderly at no charge.

To learn more about how to relieve loneliness and isolation among the elderly, call Little Brothers - Friends of the Elderly at (312) 786-1032.