In another study promoting physical activity for seniors, this time in retirees over age 60, the risk of death and development of heart disease is reduced by regular volunteer work. Seniors serving as tutors in elementary schools became twice as active daily as they were prior to the study.

Seniors mentored elementary school children 15 hours a week, through a nation-wide program run by Experience Corps. Helping children read, solve problems and learn cooperation was not only mentally and socially stimulating for the seniors, it also helped them become more active in their daily lives. According to researchers, volunteering gave them even more energy, and these seniors spent more time being active at home as well-- burning 40 percent more calories a week.

For those seniors not motivated by the idea of spending time in schools, another national volunteer program called Senior Corps. offers a variety of other opportunities to help retirees stay active.