Poster Number: NR 22 - Psychological Wellbeing in Older Women Volunteers

Abstract

Introduction: Having meaning and purpose in life is an important feature of mental health, however, finding meaning and purpose may become more challenging for older adults, due to declining function and increasing losses (e.g., widowhood, retirement). Yet, meaning and purpose in life has shown a strong association with social integration and with relational quality in particular. High levels of meaning and purpose have been associated with better health, higher daily competence, higher socioeconomic status, being employed, and being married. In addition, high levels of reported meaning and purpose in life has been associated with better health, psychological well-being, and lower levels of depression symptoms, and better sleep in older adults. Volunteering as a source of purpose in life has been reported in several studies. The Senior Companion Program (SCP) has been recognized as an important program that helps to bridge the gaps of geriatric care by meeting the non-medical needs of community dwelling older adults. SCP is a program supported by the Corporation for National and Community Service an independent, federal grant-making government agency whose mission is to improve lives, strengthen communities, and foster civic participation through service and volunteering.