Many people look at post-retirement as a way of living life on their own terms. But a research paper at the Alzheimer’s Association conference in Amsterdam states that volunteer service or social service for the elderly is good for their memory and brain health. Mental disorders stay away.

Maria C. Carrillo, chief scientific officer of the Alzheimer’s Association, says that the level of executive function of the brain of the elderly who are more active in volunteer service has been found to be higher. Executive function helps with planning, focusing, remembering, and prioritizing tasks.

Be involved in something creative or interesting

Veteran Celia Barberena (67) determined to serve after retirement. They say that if you do not have any kind of good pressure within you, then you will become hollow. You should be associated with some creative or creation. Barberena says that after you retire you become lonely.

Problems like depression, anxiety or sleeplessness arise. Memory starts getting weak. Through volunteer service, memory as well as other skills of the mind remain active and thus healthy due to continuous involvement in work. She says volunteer service has given her purpose in life, meaning and friends. This is invaluable for mental health.

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The feeling of giving back to the society keeps it positive

According to scientist Carrillo, the socialization and physical activity during volunteer service is beneficial for the brain. But more than this, the feeling of giving something to the society keeps away depression, mental problems and always keeps positive.