Title | Intersections of Home, Health, and Social Engagement in Old Age: Formal Volunteering as a Protective Factor to Health After Relocation. |
Publication Type | Journal Article |
Year of Publication | 2019 |
Authors | Gonzales, GErnest, Shen, H-W, Perry, TE, Wang, Y |
Journal | Research on Aging |
Volume | 41 |
Issue | 1 |
Pagination | 31-53 |
ISSN Number | 1552-7573 |
Keywords | Moves, Protective factors, Social Support, Volunteerism |
Abstract | This study aims to further our understanding of formal volunteering as a protective mechanism for health in the context of housing relocation and to explore race, gender, and education as moderators. A quasi-experimental design evaluated the effects of volunteering on older adults' health (self-report health, number of instrumental activities of daily living [IADLs], and depressive symptoms) among individuals who relocated but did not volunteer at Time 1 ( N = 682) in the Health and Retirement Study (2008-2010). Propensity score weighting examined health differences at Time 2 between 166 volunteers (treated) and 516 nonvolunteers (controlled). Interaction terms tested moderation. Individuals who moved and engaged in volunteering reported higher levels of self-rated health and fewer IADL difficulties compared to the control group. Race moderated the relationship between volunteering and depressive symptoms, while gender moderated the relationship between volunteering and self-assessed health. Formal volunteering protects different dimensions of health after relocation. Volunteering was particularly beneficial for females and older Whites. |
DOI | 10.1177/0164027518773125 |
User Guide Notes | |
Alternate Journal | Res Aging |
Citation Key | 9637 |
PubMed ID | 29742961 |
PubMed Central ID | PMC6372301 |
Grant List | P30 AG015281 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States |