A far greater sense of community: The impact of volunteer behaviour on the wellness of rural older Australians. (November 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Warburton, Jeni; Winterton, Rachel
• Is Part Of: Health & place. Volume 48(2017:Nov.)
• Page Start: 132
• Page End: 138
• Publication Date: 2017-11
• Subjects: Volunteer behaviour -- Rural -- Place attachment -- Wellness -- Healthy ageing; Health -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Health services accessibility -- Periodicals; Public health -- Periodicals; Political planning -- Periodicals; Social medicine -- Periodicals; Epidemiology -- Periodicals; Health Policy -- Periodicals; Health Services Accessibility -- Periodicals; Public Health -- Periodicals; Public Policy -- Periodicals; Sociology, Medical -- Periodicals; Épidémiologie -- Périodiques; Politique sanitaire -- Périodiques; Santé, Services de -- Accessibilité -- Périodiques; Health services accessibility; Health -- Social aspects; Political planning; Public health; Social medicine; Periodicals; 613
• DOI: 10.1016/j.healthplace.2017.10.005
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1353-8292

Abstract

Abstract: This paper builds on place-based research investigating the transformative potential of volunteering for service-deprived, ageing rural communities. Here, we critically explore the relationship between communities of place, voluntarism and wellness for rural older Australians. We draw on data from a large qualitative multi-site study, and utilise Ryan et al.'s (2005) systemic model of community attachment. Findings support the dual perspective of strong community sentiments through social embeddedness in rural communities; and personal interests, associated with rational choice theory, through healthy ageing practices. Both aspects have demonstrated positive impact on wellness, but also risks to wellness associated with over-expectations of volunteers. Highlights: Volunteering has health benefits for both rural volunteers and local older people. Rural voluntarism is associated with a solidarity of community sentiments. It is also a rational choice through solidarity of interests in healthy ageing. Both aspects are critical to rural older people's wellness. But there are also risks to wellness posed by over-reliance on volunteers.