Social Support, Interactions, and Satisfaction Among Older Australian Adults Engaged in Formal and Informal Volunteering: A Cross-Sectional Analysis

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Abstract
Background and objectives: Older Australian adults commonly engage in formal and informal volunteering. We examine how volunteering relates to social support, a combined measure of an individual’s quantity of social interactions, and satisfaction with the quality of social relationships. Methods: Data were analysed from 932 adults aged 50–70 years, surveyed between September 2023 and July 2024 (54.4% male). Results: Formal volunteering at < 5, 5–10, and 10+ hours/week was associated with higher social support (β = 0.54; β = 1.21; β = 1.61), as was providing <5 hours/week of informal childcare (β = 1.02). Social interaction increased across all levels of formal volunteering (β = 0.35; β = 1.01; β = 1.22), and providing <5 hours/week of care to children (β = 0.49). Social satisfaction showed no significant associations. Offering informal care to adults was not associated with any changes in social support. Conclusion: Formal volunteering appears to enhance social interaction, but not satisfaction, which may have implications for social prescribing practices.
Funding Information
  • Ian Potter Foundation (31111278)

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