A person’s senior years are meant to be the time they get to relax, do what they want and not worry about the hustle and bustle and responsibilities of their younger years. But for all the positives that the golden years offer, for many seniors it can also be a lonely period. There’s a good chance their children have grown, moved out and are busy with their own lives, so that leaves seniors feeling a bit lost on how to stay social and feel connected to people.
If this sounds familiar and you’re a senior, or you have a senior parent who wants to find ways to be more social, these tips can help.
Join a Local Senior’s Club or Group
A great initial step is to join a local senior’s club or group. Most towns and cities have a senior organization where people can meet others, take classes together, engage in activities and even host special meals, plays, musicals, sports and other events. Because it is a local group, anyone you meet will live in the area. This means you can then connect outside the group as well.
Set Up a Regular Date with Friends
Time has a way of passing by very quickly, and before you know it, days, weeks even months can pass before you see a particular friend or group of friends. This is why it’s a good idea to set up a routine where you get together with friends. It could be weekly or monthly, whatever works. You can even make it a fun outing by meeting at a coffee shop or restaurant.
Familiarize Yourself with Digital Communication
Technology has done a lot to help people stay in touch with friends and loved ones, even if they are located far from each other. Engaging in regular phone calls, video chats and instant messaging means you have a quick and easy way to chat.
If you feel like technology is a bit too complicated and you don’t have a lot of confidence using these tools, try taking a beginner’s course on digital tools. You’d be surprised how quick it is to learn. You’ll also need a smartphone, tablet, Chromebook, laptop or desktop.
Consider Moving to a Retirement Community
Seniors may also want to consider a change in their lifestyle when it comes to accommodations. While they may not need assistance, moving to a retirement community will provide them with instant access to a social circle. They will have people available to talk to, share a meal with, play games, exercise, and even take enrichment classes with – depending on the facility.
Independent living facilities give seniors the freedom and privacy they were used to in their homes, but with added conveniences such as a dining program, transportation, care available if needed and more. You can search for “retirement communities near me” to find all the available options.
Seniors today are living longer and healthier lives than they were decades ago. But to ensure they also stay happy and fulfilled, they must find ways to be social during their retirement years.
