Estonia wants to get more seniors involved in volunteer work
Estonia plans to boost senior participation in volunteer work, which the Social Affairs Ministry says can help fight loneliness and support seniors citizens' mental health.
More Estonians over 60 are volunteering, according to the European Social Survey (ESS), but their involvement still trails younger generations. The Ministry of Social Affairs sees increased community engagement as a way to improve seniors' social connections and mental well-being.
University of Tartu (TÜ) social welfare junior lecturer Merle Linno said volunteering gives seniors autonomy and a sense of competence often missing in paid work.
"Volunteering is based on people doing what they want and what they're good at," Linno said. It also fosters a sense of belonging.
"It makes you feel like you're part of the people you work with, whether that's an organization or a more informal group," she explained. "And all of these activities help support people's mental health."
A recent TÜ study highlighted that beyond doing something you enjoy, it's meaningful volunteer opportunities that matter most.
"It's about understanding why you're doing it and how it fits into the bigger picture," Linno said. The work needs to feel significant, she added, "no matter how big or small."
Estonia testing out international approaches
At the Social Affairs Ministry, community support coordinator Kaidy Aljama called volunteering a protective factor for mental health.
She said Estonia is testing methods like the "Circle of Friends" group intervention model developed to reduce isolation among older adults and strengthen psychosocial support networks.
"We're taking part in a Europe-wide initiative focused on reducing loneliness and social isolation among seniors," Aljama explained, noting it should offer insight into how volunteer work can be better structured in Estonia.
She added that the next step is working with the Interior Ministry and other partners to explore evidence-based approaches and international best practices that could strengthen community support programs, which would mutually benefit both senior citizens and their communities.
Krista Mulenok, a board member at the senior advocacy nonprofit Golden League (KL), noted that many older Estonian residents are still working past 65, which can limit involvement in volunteer work.
Still, she expressed hope that greater awareness about volunteer opportunities could encourage more engagement.
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Editor: Mait Ots, Aili Vahtla
