Lifestyle changes that come with getting older often shrink your circle of friends. If you’re no longer working or recently have moved, you may feel more cut off than ever.
Medical research has found that social isolation can affect physical and cognitive health, in addition to making people feel lonely.
But there are also advantages to being a senior that may have been overlooked. Whether it’s in living in an independent living community or various organizations geared toward older folks, there are many opportunities to socialize and make friends. Here are some tried-and-true methods to make friends after 60.
Sometimes, it’s hard to search for friends simply by listing personality traits you usually look for in a friend or sweetheart. But you can find like-minded people by searching for activity “matches” on Facebook, the AARP website, or an organization like Meetup.com.
Whether you’re looking to stuff envelopes for your favorite candidate, travel to exotic locales, or simply discuss books online, you can find in-person and virtual spaces to meet friends with common interests.
Have you meant to become more active or just need to find a new fitness opportunity after moving? Exercise groups offer the bonus of community spirit, along with all the cardio and flexibility benefits.
Hiking groups, water aerobics classes, yoga sessions, biking excursions—they’re all out there, and nearly all are structured for group interaction. If nothing else, few things bond people more quickly than complaining about the number of reps the fitness instructor is putting you through!
Along with opportunities to meet new people, working and volunteering also help you feel more productive while getting you out of your home more often.
When seeking to give back to the community, you can contact the nonprofit directly or look for a service organization to play “matchmaker.” Don’t hesitate to let them know you’d prefer to help out at a place where you can meet new people.
Attending religious services is another way to find both comfort and community, even if you need to find a new place of worship after a move. Faith communities are known for their welcoming spirit, and you’ll likely make new friends in no time.
Keep in mind, too, that most places of worship have a broader focus than the services alone. You’ll likely find a fellowship hour after the worship service, offering members a chance to mingle, and probably sample some tasty goodies! Look for bulletin boards and listen to announcements before services, because you’ll probably hear about additional activities, from religious discussions to game nights.
Few people reach their golden years without suffering loss and challenges. Too often, those negative experiences close us off from the world or make us feel alienated from those who can’t understand what we’re going through. Support groups offer a chance to not only improve social wellness but also heal emotional scars.
Along with your place of worship or independent living community, Ohio's Council on Aging’s Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) Call Center has services and information for older adults, people with disabilities, caregivers, and professionals. They can help answer questions about aging, disability, or long-term care services, ADRC staff are ready to answer your questions, share information about options, and connect you to the community resources and services that can best meet your needs.
When you live in a retirement community, friendships can begin at home. Residents of senior living neighborhoods can count on comfort, safety, and socializing opportunities.
At Deupree House, for example, we know when it comes to activities and events—not to mention socializing preferences—one size doesn’t fit all. Our events and wellness calendars are packed with a wide range of cultural, social, and fitness opportunities. Take a tai chi or a “chair zoom” class workout, or check out the wealth of lectures, art classes, field trips, and movie experiences Deupree House has going on every month. Contact us at your convenience to learn more about living and social opportunities at Deupree House.