An analysis of data from the Longitudinal Study of Aging found that individuals who volunteer have lower mortality rates than those who do not, even when controlling for age, gender and physical health. Additionally, Mayo Clinic says volunteers with chronic or serious illness can even experience declines in pain intensity and depression.
How is this possible? Volunteering provides a sense of purpose and accomplishment, leading to a profound impact on physical and mental health. People who volunteer also report higher levels of happiness, satisfaction and self-esteem. They also have lower stress levels, which can in turn lower their risk of heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure and depression.
At Freeman, our volunteers make patients and their families more comfortable through personal attention, dedication and a genuine desire to enrich the lives of others. They visit patients, deliver flowers, answer phones and give directions. They can even provide clerical support or ring up sales in a Freeman Gift Gallery.
Freeman volunteers also enjoy benefits including:
- Free flu shots
- Prescription discounts at QuickMeds Pharmacy™
- Discounts at Freeman Health Essentials, Freeman Gift Gallery and Freeman Hearing Center
- Low-cost health screenings
- Meal credit on the days you work 3 or more hours
- Health and educational seminars
- Annual appreciation dinner
- Annual Christmas dinner party
- Bi-annual luncheons
- Complimentary apparel
Learn more about volunteering at Freeman here, or call 417.347.4603 for more information.