Got summer plans? Try this for a change!

Many families begin to think about their summer plans in Spring. Summer jobs for students, neighborhood pools, family trips to the beach or lake, and camping may appear on your Summer bucket list. But have you considered volunteering? As you plan your Summer, consider giving back to your elderly community. Volunteer at a local senior center or nursing home. If you have children, involve them in the planning and encourage their participation. Most older adults enjoy friendly new faces, interacting with others, playing games, listening to music, doing singalongs and other activities. Many older adults have lost friends and family members. Some feel lonely and receive few visitors. You can make a difference in someone’s life by contacting your local senior center or nursing care facility and asking how you can get involved. Not only will it help the residents who live there or visit, it can help you too. Research suggests that doing good for others, ultimately does our own selves a lot of good.