Study: Volunteering Helps You Live Longer

We frequently hear about studies showing certain foods, drugs or supplements help you live longer. But, living longer isn't just about taking something. It can also be about giving.

You could never accuse Opal Hammett of sleeping in on Mondays. At 6 a.m., she's manning an information desk at North Kansas City Hospital.

"And, they start early. So, I love to be here to help," said Hammett.

What makes Opal extraordinary is that she's a volunteer...and she'll celebrate her 90th birthday this year!

Could it be that volunteering helps Opal and other live longer?

"We're needed so naturally we're going to live longer," said Hammett.

Researchers looked at thousands of retirees with the average age of 78. Those who volunteered anywhere, not just at hospitals, were less than half as likely to die over the four years of the study. Researchers even accounted for volunteers tending to be healthier anyway. And, they found volunteering itself seems to lead to a longer life.

Researchers say volunteering is some powerful medicine in three ways. It keeps you socially, mentally and physically active.

Opal like escorting guests to the right department, getting to know them, and helping them at a stressful time.

The hospital's Kendra Earley finds that doing good is good for all the volunteers.

"I have a purpose, a reason for being. And I think each day from what they all share with me, they feel like they do make a big difference in the lives of others," said Earley from North Kansas City Hospital.

Volunteering gives Opal a reason to laugh, and to live.

North Kansas City Hospital has about 30 volunteers who are eighty or older.