Using elderly volunteers to care for the elderly: opportunities for nursing.

A growing population of educated and skilled younger retirees may help provide volunteer services to the growing population of frail elderly in homes, hospitals, and community agencies. Nursing professionals are in key positions to provide insight and guidance in the development of programs that offer new opportunities for older volunteers. Program structures that encourage collaboration, cooperation, and innovation among professionals and volunteers have the potential to increase health care services while decreasing economic challenges.