It’s well before noon on a Tuesday at the local hospital, and Roslyn has arrived early for her shift. She’s sharing lunch and stories with fellow team members, her bright blue volunteer jacket buttoned and ready.
At 92, she carries herself with confidence, her warm smile ready for whatever the day brings. For 13 years, she has made this same journey at least twice a week – and she wouldn’t have it any other way. “I’ve always found ways to volunteer,” she says. “When I retired, I knew I’d keep doing it – just more often.”
For seniors like Roslyn, purpose never retires.
Why Volunteering in Retirement Matters
Roslyn’s story is inspiring, but not unique – more older adults today are looking for meaningful ways to stay active in retirement. Volunteering offers just that.
Whether it’s supporting a hospital, a food bank or mentoring the next generation, senior volunteers bring life experience, empathy and dedication to their roles. In Roslyn’s case, it started young.
Growing up in Chicago, kindness came naturally. “If I saw somebody older, I’d get up and give my seat. It was just automatic,” she says.
Over the years, she supported the Special Olympics, a local food pantry and an animal shelter. But it was hospital work that became her passion.
A Typical Shift for a Senior Volunteer
Every Tuesday and Friday from noon to 4 pm, Roslyn moves through the hospital’s hallways – delivering flowers, transporting patients and running essential errands.
“We run errands for anybody who calls – any staff member, any department,” she explains. “But mostly we’re discharging patients, bringing specimens to the lab or going down to the kitchen and bringing items up.”
These are small acts with a big impact. She especially loved helping new mothers leave the maternity ward. Even during the pandemic, she was eager to return. “I stopped during COVID, but the minute the hospital reopened, I charged there. I was anxious to do it.”
The Social Side of Volunteering
Beyond the tasks, Roslyn has built strong friendships with her fellow volunteers. “On Tuesdays there are four of us, Fridays three. When we’re not running errands, we socialize,” she says.
This sense of community isn’t limited to the hospital. At Atria Tarzana in Los Angeles, where Roslyn lives, her blue jacket has become a conversation starter.
“People see me coming and going and ask what I do. I tell them – and they’re curious.”
How Atria Encourages Community Involvement
Micah Anthony, Atria Tarzana’s Engage Life Director, says residents like Roslyn help shape the community culture.
“We really encourage our residents to pursue causes that matter to them,” Anthony says. “And Roslyn leads by example.”
Each fall, Atria Tarzana hosts a food drive for local families – one of many ways residents give back.
Steps to Start Volunteering as a Senior
Volunteering is a fulfilling way to stay active, connected and purposeful in retirement. If you’re inspired by Roslyn’s story, here are a few steps to help you get started:
- Reflect on your interests. What causes or settings speak to you?
- Search locally. Use sites like VolunteerMatch.org or call nearby hospitals, shelters or community centers.
- Be realistic. Start with one shift per week and build from there.
- Ask questions. Make sure the role suits your physical and social preferences.
- Stay open. You may discover unexpected joy in trying something new.
Discover What Moves You
Whether you’re drawn to helping others like Roslyn, or you’re still figuring out what brings you purpose, Atria is here to help you live the life you choose – with the support, structure and inspiration to make every day meaningful.
Find an Atria community near you.
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