Table of Contents
BEST IELTS General Reading Test 581
IELTS GENERAL READING TEST 581 – READING PASSAGE – 3
IELTS GENERAL READING TEST– 581
READING PASSAGE – 3
Volunteering Programs for Elderly Companionship
A. Loneliness among the elderly has become a significant social issue worldwide. Many older adults live alone, far from family or friends, which can lead to isolation and mental health challenges. To address this, numerous communities have established volunteering programs where individuals provide companionship and assistance to seniors, improving their quality of life.
B. These volunteering programs typically match volunteers with elderly participants based on shared interests or backgrounds. Volunteers visit regularly to chat, help with errands, or accompany seniors to appointments and social events. The consistency of visits helps build trust and reduces feelings of neglect.
C. Training is a crucial part of these programs. Volunteers receive guidance on communication skills, understanding age-related health conditions, and managing emergencies. This preparation ensures that volunteers can offer compassionate and informed support without overstepping their roles.
D. Besides one-on-one companionship, many programs organise group activities such as gardening clubs, art workshops, or gentle exercise classes. These social events foster community among elderly participants and encourage active lifestyles, which are beneficial for physical and mental wellbeing.
E. Funding for volunteering programs often comes from government grants, charitable foundations, and community fundraising. Despite financial constraints, many programs have expanded by recruiting more volunteers and collaborating with local healthcare providers and senior centres.
F. Challenges include overcoming the reluctance of some seniors to accept help, often due to pride or fear of becoming a burden. Volunteers and coordinators work to build rapport and respect autonomy, making sure assistance is offered sensitively and tailored to each individual’s needs.
G. Ultimately, volunteering companionship programs demonstrate how simple human connection can make a profound difference. By fostering relationships and creating supportive networks, these programs help elderly individuals lead happier, more connected lives, contributing to healthier communities overall.
Questions 28–33
Match the information below to the correct paragraph (A–G).
Write the correct letter, A–G, next to questions 28–33.
28. How volunteers are prepared for their role.
29. Ways in which seniors and volunteers are paired.
30. Reasons some elderly people resist receiving help.
31. Sources of financial support for these programs.
32. The importance of social activities for seniors.
33. The overall benefit of companionship programs.
Questions 34–40
Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage.
34. Many elderly people suffer from feelings of __________.
35. Volunteers may assist seniors by helping with __________.
36. Training covers communication and managing __________.
37. Group activities include gardening and __________ classes.
38. Program growth is helped by cooperation with __________.
39. Some seniors refuse help due to __________ or fear.
40. These programs contribute to building __________ communities.
ANSWERS
28. C
29. B
30. F
31. E
32. D
33. G
34. ISOLATION
35. ERRANDS
36. EMERGENCIES
37. ART WORKSHOPS
38. LOCAL HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS
39. PRIDE
40. HEALTHIER