Volunteering Reduces Risk of Hypertension in Older Adults

Did you know that volunteering can protect you from high blood pressure? A new study by Carnegie Mellon University has found that older adults who volunteer can decrease their risk of hypertension by 40%, suggesting that volunteering may be an effective alternative to pharmaceuticals for reducing one's risk of high blood pressure. Also, according to Dr. Rodlescia S. Sneed, lead author of the study,“Participating in volunteer activities may provide older adults with social connections that they might not have otherwise. There is strong evidence that having good social connections promotes healthy gaining and reduces risk for a number of negative health outcomes.”

Science Daily, 6/13/13