Giving back has a way of enriching life at any age or stage. At Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo, seniors enjoying retirement living find that contributing to others through time, talents, or simple acts of kindness brings connection, purpose, and joy. As the holiday season approaches, it’s a wonderful reminder that everyone has something meaningful to offer, no matter their abilities or circumstances.
The Power of Purpose
Retirement can be a new beginning: a chance to focus on what feels most meaningful. Many seniors find that giving back through encouragement, creativity, or companionship fosters a deep sense of fulfillment.
Research shows that helping others has a significant positive impact on the giver’s health and happiness. Studies have linked volunteering with improved physical activity, reduced stress, and even longer life expectancy. In one long-term study, older adults who volunteered at least 100 hours a year had lower rates of depression and greater life satisfaction compared to those who didn’t volunteer at all.
Other research has found that volunteering and acts of kindness can strengthen self-esteem, reduce anxiety, and prevent social isolation, which is one of the biggest risks to senior health. When we help others, we also help ourselves by staying connected, mentally sharper, and emotionally fulfilled.
Everyday Ways to Give Back
Many seniors may not have the ability to volunteer their time or energy as they once did, but that doesn’t make their contributions any less meaningful. Simple gestures of kindness and connection can have a lasting impact, helping create a community where everyone feels valued and included.
We encourage our seniors to try:
- Writing cards or notes for friends or neighbours
- Helping decorate for seasonal events or social gatherings.
- Crafting or baking for a charitable fundraiser.
- Participating in a group fundraising event
- Offering encouragement or companionship to a fellow resident.
- Sharing your experience or wisdom with younger generations.
Every person has something unique to offer. Even a quiet act of kindness can create a ripple of warmth throughout the community.
Giving Back During the Holiday Season
The holidays are a natural time to reflect on generosity and gratitude. Across Canada, there are countless ways for seniors to participate in giving, whether close to home or from the comfort of their suite.
As the weather grows colder, the community need often grows. Food banks and shelters see more visitors, families may struggle to afford gifts for their children, and local charities work harder to make sure everyone feels cared for during the season. Volunteering, donating, or even raising awareness can make a real difference for neighbours facing those challenges.
Independent seniors may enjoy volunteering in person at local food banks, helping with toy or clothing drives, or supporting nearby shelters. Many communities also partner with local charities, hospitals, or schools to collect donations or assemble care packages.
For residents who prefer or need gentler ways to give, meaningful opportunities still abound:
- Write holiday cards or letters for children in hospitals or military members away from home.
- Create handmade crafts or ornaments for local fundraising markets.
- Record or share stories that can be passed on to family members or community archives.
Even from home, seniors can make a difference, spreading warmth to those who need it most during the colder months.
How Communities Make It Easy to Participate
Residents often find that giving back is even more rewarding when done together. Group activities like seasonal fundraisers, donation drives, and community events make it easy for everyone to take part, whether by contributing time, cheering others on, or simply showing support. At Lakeside Gardens, these shared experiences bring people closer while supporting causes that matter to them. There’s always a way to be involved and feel connected.
Inspiring Each Other
Kindness tends to spark more kindness. When residents, families, and team members share their experiences, whether it’s a story about volunteering, a small act that brightened someone’s day, or a moment of generosity they witnessed, it reminds everyone of the impact one person can have.
Simply talking about those experiences over coffee, at mealtime, or during activities can encourage others to get involved too. The more we share our stories, the more we inspire one another to keep that spirit of giving alive all year long.
Celebrating the Spirit of Giving
No matter how big or small, every act of kindness helps build a sense of belonging. The holiday season is a time to celebrate that shared spirit, to recognize the ways we can each give, receive, and connect.
At Lakeside Gardens in Nanaimo, residents discover that purpose can be found in everyday moments of care, creativity, and community. Book your tour today and see how connection and purpose come naturally at Lakeside Gardens.