Health benefits of volunteering as you age
As a nurse practitioner who specializes in family medicine and geriatrics for CMC Primary Care, Jonathan Briggs, FNP not only takes care of his aging patients’ medical needs he also works hard to help them maximize the functioning of their mind, body, and spirit so they can enjoy the highest quality of life as they age. That’s why he regularly recommends volunteering for her older patients.
“Staying healthy as you get older isn’t just about going to your physician regularly, and taking all of your meds, and getting all your screenings,” said Briggs. “Participating in meaningful activities works your mind, gets you up and moving, and benefits your mental health. I truly believe that volunteerism can have a significant impact on the health of my senior patients.”
Jonathan is definitely onto something. There are many studies that show that older adults who volunteer have lower mortality rates, greater functional ability, and lower rates of depression. Plus those over the age of 50 who volunteer on a regular basis are less likely to develop high blood pressure.
“Throughout my years in primary care, I’ve seen how volunteering and having a purpose has positively impacted some of my senior patients,” said Briggs. “It’s not uncommon for retirees and older folks to find themselves in a more sedentary lifestyle. That has adverse effects on the mind and the body. Volunteering is something I can recommend to get them out of the recliner and moving. Later on, many will report back and tell me that they felt their health was better – that these activities are having a positive impact on them both physically and mentally.”
Some of the potential health benefits from volunteering are:
- Reduce effects of stress, anger, and anxiety
- Combat depression
- Increase self-confidence
- Provide a sense of purpose
- Increase physical activity
- Lessen symptoms of chronic pain
- Increase heart health
- Lower mortality rates
- Reverse declining brain function
Volunteer at CMC
Conway Medical Center is in a unique position to see the benefits of volunteerism as hundreds of people have donated their time and expertise within our walls. Many are retirees who bring with them skill sets that they can put to use here in our many departments.
Other assignments outside their areas of experience give them the opportunity to try something they’ve never done before and offer them a chance to stay mentally sharp. Volunteers who make deliveries or escort patients and visitors on our campus have the added physical benefit of logging thousands of steps.
The social aspects of working and helping others at CMC can have a profound effect on your overall psychological well-being. You’ll have the opportunity to make meaningful connections amongst our volunteers, employees, and patients. Become a part of the CMC family, and add more zest to your life.
Jonathan Briggs, FNP
Primary Care
Jonathan Briggs, FNP graduated from Binghamton University in 1994 with a Masters Degree in Nursing as a Family Nurse Practitioner. He has over 26 years of experience in family medicine with numerous recognitions for outstanding clinical performance and high patient satisfaction. He was also recognized as the New York State Nurse Practitioner of the Year. Prior to moving to South Carolina, Jonathan had built a devoted practice of almost 3000 patients, a testament to the quality of care he provides.
To schedule an appointment with Jonathan Briggs, FNP, call 843-347-8000.
