Determinanti e motivazioni alla base del volontariato: un modello integrato/Determinants and motivations to volunteer in older adults: An integrated model

Running from the active aging perspective, a study has been conducted which considers older volunteers. Aim of the study is to evaluate if the variables included in the theory of planned behaviour, the desire toward the behaviour, self-efficacy cognitions, and self-determination theory can be integrated in a model which is capable to predict volunteer activity among older adults. A national sample of older subjects from different volunteer associations and organizations have been considered. Self-determination variables were measured by the Volunteer Motivation Scale (VMS) appositely developed for this study. Results indicated that the model considered adequately fit the data, and that it can predict volunteer behaviour. The possibility to use this model to promote volunteer activity among older adults is discussed.