Longitudinal Study of Foster Grandparent and Senior Companion Programs

Posted by Corporation for National and Community Service on May 7, 2019

Volunteering is good for our health. But financial, social, and physical challenges make it difficult for some low-income, at-risk Americans over age 55 to volunteer. As a result, these individuals may miss out on the benefits of volunteering, and communities may miss out on the volunteer service these individuals provide.

Senior Corps’ Foster Grandparents Program and Senior Companion Program provide national service opportunities for this population. New, independent research sponsored by the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS) shows that through service in these programs, volunteers report feeling happier and healthier while making a difference in their communities. In fact, it found Senior Corps volunteers who consistently served feel healthier, less depressed, and less socially isolated than those who did not.

To learn more about the benefits of volunteering, check out the full report. We also urge you to watch our accompanying video, view the infographic, and read the issue brief.

Explore the Report


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