The authors, psychology researchers of Auckland University of Technology, reviews the different impacts financial status, volunteer engagements and religious membership have on matured adults. Drawing data from 399 questionnaires answered by New Zealanders aged 65 and above, findings show that active matured adults are less likely to have depression. Volunteerism has positive effect on mental health as due to public approval and having a sense of purpose. Being part of a religious community also have health benefits due to support from the social network. While staying active, making friends and contributing to society are the main reasons for volunteerism, poverty is one of the main barriers. This article is a useful for my exploration of using social activities and volunteerism to promote active ageing in Singapore. Some limitations are that this is not in Singapore’s context and that no details of the types of volunteer work is reflected.
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