Volunteering is emerging as one of the most powerful, accessible ways to support healthy aging, with new research showing it can slow cognitive decline by 15–20%. As we enter the new year, and during the UN’s Year of the Volunteer and Alzheimer Awareness Month, it’s an ideal moment to consider how giving your time can strengthen both your life and the lives of others.
A growing body of evidence demonstrates that regularly helping others, whether formally through an organization or informally in the community, has measurable benefits for brain health. Studies following more than 30,000 adults over two decades found that people who volunteer experience slower cognitive aging, with declines reduced by 15–20% compared to those who do not volunteer.
Researchers suggest several reasons for this powerful effect:
- Increased social connection, which reduces loneliness and stimulates memory and executive function.
- Purpose-driven activity, which supports emotional well‑being and resilience.
- Regular engagement, which keeps the brain active through communication, planning, and problem‑solving.
Additional research shows that older adults who volunteer have better episodic memory and executive function, key areas affected early in dementia.
Why This Moment Matters
This year carries special significance.
- The UN has declared it the Year of the Volunteer, recognizing the global importance of community contribution.
- January is Alzheimer Awareness Month, a time to focus on brain health and support for people living with dementia.
- And with a new year underway, many of us are reflecting on how to live with more purpose, connection, and compassion.
Volunteering is a rare opportunity to improve your own well‑being while uplifting someone else’s.
Carefor Volunteer Opportunities
For those in Eastern Ontario, Carefor offers meaningful, relationship‑centered volunteer roles that directly support seniors and people living with dementia:
- Non‑urgent medical transportation – Help clients get to essential appointments safely and with dignity.
- Adult Day Programs for people living with dementia – Support therapeutic activities, social engagement, and joyful moments.
- Friendly visiting – Reduce isolation by spending time with seniors who may have limited social contact.
- Support Centres in Eastern Counties – Assist with programs that strengthen community connection and independence.
- Carefor Hospice Cornwall – Numerous opportunities from gardening to fundraising events to program support are available.
- Fundraising – Help at events which raise important funds for programs at services.
Each role offers a chance to build relationships, learn new skills, and contribute to a healthier, more connected community.
Learn more or sign up at www.carefor.ca/volunteer.
Dementia Programs and Supports
If you require support for a loved one who is living with Alzheimer Disease or other forms of dementia, Carefor has programs and supports available to you.
Richmond Care Home is a 16-unit retirement home exclusively for women living with dementia. With specialized memory care in an intimate and home-like setting, Richmond Care Home is a place where you and your loved one can have peace of mind. Richmond Care Home also offers overnight and daytime respite care.
Adult Day Programs – Our adult day programs on Carling Ave in Ottawa and in Finch welcome people living with dementia to offer a safe and stimulating day out while allowing a loved one a much needed break.