We all know that we could and should be doing more to help others but with busy work lives, busy home lives and attempting to make time for self-care, there often just aren’t enough hours in the day.
However, new research from the University of Texas at Austin has revealed that, well, a bit selfishly, helping others could also be the secret to helping our own long-term brain health.
This is essential as according to Alzheimer’s Research UK, 982,000 people are estimated to be living with dementia in the UK and this number is predicted to rise to 1.4 million by 2040.
Helping others could slow down brain ageing
The study, which followed more than 300,000 adults in the US over two decades found that people who consistently helped others outside of the home showed a slower rate of age-related decline.
This decline was reduced by 15-20% among those who either volunteered formally or helped in informal ways by doing things like helping neighbours, family or friends.
Notably, the most consistent benefit was found when people spent around two to four hours per week helping others. So, even a few hours one evening or an hour here or there could make a significant difference.
How to get started in volunteering
Reach Volunteering offers the following advice to those that have never volunteered before: “If you’ve never volunteered before, start with a time limited project, or a short-term commitment. This will give you a chance to try out volunteering and experiment with what works for you.
“Think carefully about what you can reasonably offer. Consider how much time you can spare, whether you can travel or if remote working would be best for you, and what sort of commitment you’re willing to make. Don’t overstretch: work out what you can confidently commit to and start there – you can always build on it later.”
