Physical Health Benefits of Volunteering

According to the evidence from systematic reviews and research studies, volunteering has been consistently associated with various physical health benefits for individuals. One of the most significant findings is the positive impact of volunteering on reducing mortality rates. Several studies have reported that volunteers tend to have lower mortality rates and increased functional ability compared to non-volunteers [1, 3].

A key physical benefit of volunteering is the increase in physical activity levels. The umbrella review [1] found that the most consistent positive effect on physical health was an increase in physical activity among volunteers. Engaging in volunteer work often involves being active and mobile, which can contribute to better physical fitness and overall health.

Additionally, volunteering has been linked to improved self-reported health [1], increased functional independence [1], and reduced functional disability [1]. These findings suggest that volunteering can help individuals maintain their physical capabilities and independence as they age.