Can volunteering spark joy for seniors with dementia?

This study aims to see if structured activities can help reduce apathy—a lack of motivation or interest—in older adults with memory problems living in assisted living. Researchers will compare two activities: a personalized volunteering opportunity within the community and a guided current events discussion group. About 200 residents will be randomly assigned to one of these activities, which they'll do three times a week for six months, while researchers measure their mood, activity levels, and sense of purpose.