3.6.2 "Becoming" an older volunteer: A grounded theory study (35)
Janet Brown, Assistant Professor, College of Nursing, The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, Tenne, United States of America Co authors: Shu-li Chen, Linda Mefford & Bonnie Callen
Abstract:
Background:
Studies have shown better physical and psychological health, well-being, increased life satisfaction, lower mortality risk, and lower functional dependence and depression for older persons who volunteer. But, it is not yet known how older persons “become” volunteers.
Aims:
The purpose of this Grounded Theory study is to describe the process by which older persons “become” volunteers. Specifically, how older persons incorporate volunteering into who they are, not merely what they do.
Methods:
Secondary analysis grounded theory methodology was used on forty interviews of older persons volunteering for Habitat for Humanity during September 2006. Content analysis was used to uncover the process of “becoming” a volunteer. Margaret Newman’s theory of health as expanding consciousness provided the theoretical framework for the study. Results: “Helping out” (core category} for older volunteers occurs within the context of “continuity”, “commitment” and “connection” which provide the basic motivation for volunteering. When a need arises, older volunteers “help out” providing physical and financial resources as their health and resources permit. Social, physical, emotional and spiritual benefits of volunteering become motivators for future additional volunteering.
Discussion:
Findings suggest that older volunteering is a developmental process and learned behavior. The process of “becoming” a volunteer can and should be fostered in older persons by personally inviting them volunteer. Intergenerational volunteering projects will allow older persons to pass on knowledge and skills and provide positive role modeling for younger volunteers who someday will be older volunteers.
Conclusion:
Understanding the process of “becoming” a volunteer may lead to strategies for recruiting and retaining older volunteers. Except for older persons with very poor health, almost any older person can be a volunteer in some capacity. Volunteering will lead to improved quality of life for older persons and stronger communities because of services provided.
Source of Funding: Other
Level of funding: 1,000 - 10,000
Biography:
Dr. Janet Witucki Brown, PhD, RN is an assistant professor at the University of Tennessee, College of Nursing. She received her BSN and MSN degrees from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana and her doctorate in nursing from the University of Tennesse. She also earned a minor in gerontology. In 2004, she founded a multidisciplinary grounded theory research group at the University of Tennessee in Knoxville. She is a volunteer parish nurse and a member of the board of the Senior Citizens' Home Assistance Program. Her research interests include elder use of home and community services, older volunteering, and family caregiving for individuals with dementia. She has numerous publications in nursing and health-related journals and has presented her research at multiple conferences both in the United states and internationally.