Taking care of the needs of others may extend the caregiver’s lifespan.  Researchers from the University of California/San Francisco (UCSF; California, USA) assessed the volunteering habits of 6,360 retirees, average age 78 years.  The team found that volunteering was strongly associated with lower death rates, with 12% of the study subjects dying by 2006 – as compared to 26% of the non-volunteers.  Separately, researchers from the University of Michigan (Michigan, USA) analyzed data from 1,688 couples, ages 70 years and older. Over a seven-year period, the couples were surveyed to ascertain the type and extent of assistance each provided to the other. Those who spent 14 or more hours/week caring for a sick spouse were almost 30% less likely to die during the study period, as compared to those who spent no time helping.

Giving one’s time and energy to others expands the caregiver’s social network, thereby increasing their access to resources and improving their sense of self-worth.   As well, the sense of accomplishment seemingly translates to more years of life. These benefits suggest that many more of us should be forthcoming as volunteers and caregivers.