ORCID

Halvorsen, https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9184-633X

Language

English (en)

Publication Date

12-2025

Summary

Civic engagement can be broadly defined as the practice of service (volunteering or informal helping), advocacy, and political participation (voting). Older adults are a large and growing population that frequently engages in these civic activities.

In 2022, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that approximately one quarter of the 11 million daily volunteers in the U.S. were age 65 and older. Between 2018 and 2021, there was a 10% increase in volunteer hours filled by individuals over age 65. Research shows this trend will be mutually beneficial, improving the quality of life for older adults who are, in turn, positively impacting their communities. This group also consistently demonstrates the highest rates of political involvement in the nation. In the 2024 presidential election, 74.7% of citizens aged 65 and older reported voting, leading all other age demographics.

Document Type

Brief

Comments

Issue Brief #2025.13

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