Identifying key predictors of volunteer and charity work among older adults in Canada

Volunteers play an integral role in providing support to older adults. While predictors of volunteering and charity work are well understood within the general population, there is a lack of research on specific sub-populations, such as visible minority groups. In addition, the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on volunteering have yet to be studied. This study aims to close this research gap by using CLSA data to 1) identify key demographic, socio-demographic, environmental, and health status predictors of volunteer and charity work among adults aged 65 and over, both in the general population and among visible minority groups; and 2) examine changes in patterns in volunteering and charity work during the pandemic. This research will allow for a better understanding for the potential barriers and facilitators to volunteer and charity work faced by diverse groups of older adults and will help to inform policy related to increasing opportunities give back for these groups.