It's said that the the benefits of volunteering your time to those less fortunate than you go both ways. There are actual physical benefits to the brain, according to a study conducted at John Hopkins, that help ward off diseases of the brain that can accompany age. There are also mental health benefits to helping others -- for you and the recipients. It doesn't take much to help -- volunteer at your local library, homeless shelter, or animal shelter. Create a community clothing drive. Go through your closet and clear out old stuff you can donate. Anything helps!