How to Make New Friends as a Senior

Friendships are essential at every age. They give us a sense of purpose, keep our minds active, and reduce feelings of stress and loneliness. But as we age, making new friends can be a bit of a challenge.

So, here are a few tips and tricks to help you expand your social circle, create lasting friendships, and learn something new along the way!

Start a Hobby or Join a Class

Taking up a new hobby or joining a new class is the perfect way to meet new people as a senior. Start by considering your goals—would you like to get fit and move your body? Or would you prefer to stimulate your mind? If you’re into more active activities, consider joining a dance class or taking up yoga or tai chi. Otherwise, why not give painting, pottery, or gardening a go? Wherever your interests lie, there will be a local class to suit. This way, you can connect with people who share similar interests, and you’ll have an easy way to break the ice! If you don’t click with anyone right away—that’s okay! Give it time, and you never know what could happen.

Become a Volunteer

There’s something incredibly enriching about giving back to the community. Volunteering allows you to make a difference, and is a great way to meet friendly, like-minded individuals. Whether it’s at the local library, a community garden, or an animal shelter, the options are endless. As a volunteer, your life experience will be invaluable, and just like joining a class, you’ll have an easy way to break the ice with your new potential friend!

Connect The Modern Way

Have you considered using the internet to make friends? It might seem a little strange, but the internet can be a fantastic resource for connecting with others, even in older age. Give online forums a try—use these spaces to chat about whatever interests you and share your opinions. If you have a smartphone or tablet, there are also apps designed solely to help seniors chat and make friends!

Otherwise, social media could be a great choice if you’re interested in reconnecting with a long-lost family member or an old friend you haven’t spoken to in years. Either way, the internet is your oyster, and full of friendship possibilities. If you need help connecting online, it might be worth asking a friend, family member, or care worker to give you a hand.

Note: be wary of online scams. Never share your personal information with people you don’t know online, including your address, phone number, or financial information. If something seems strange or someone is asking for information you’re uncomfortable providing, end the conversation or ask a loved one for their insight.

Could you use some help staying social? Here at Simply Helping, we offer a range of home care services to keep you happy, healthy, and connected! From social support, to transport to local events and classes, we’ve got you covered. Click here to learn more and contact us today!