Maintaining an active social life can be challenging in retirement. Cherished friends may no longer be with you, you can no longer enjoy workplace camaraderie, and you may not live near all your loved ones. If you aren’t careful, you may become socially isolated and lonely. Use the tips below if you’re wondering how to improve your social life. You may need to take a leap of faith, but wouldn’t it be worth it if you walked away with some wonderful new friends?
How to Improve Your Social Life
Join a Club or Group
One of the best ways to make new friends is to find a shared interest or work on a project together. Not only will you immediately have something in common, but if the conversation wanes, you can always discuss the focus of the club or group. There are a wide variety of clubs and groups available, including all of the following: book clubs, exercise groups, choirs, chess leagues, knitting groups, etc.
Hop on Social Media
Online communication is not the same as socializing in person, but it’s a great way to keep in touch with friends and family. Using Facebook, Instagram, e-mail, Skype, or even online games, you can connect and reconnect with people you hold dear. However, don’t use social media as a crutch that prevents you from socializing in person. When possible, use social media to reach out to loved ones asking them to meet up in person.
Volunteer
Volunteering is a great way to hit two birds with one stone. You’ll help your community while also meeting new people and possibly making new friends. If you aren’t sure where to volunteer, just take a look around your community. The following places commonly appreciate volunteers: food pantries, soup kitchens, animal rescues, parks, schools, libraries, art museums, the YMCA, Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, etc.
Say Hello to Strangers
Say hello to strangers from time to time, especially if they look like they’re up for a conversation. You don’t have to become best friends, but just saying hi and asking a few questions can brighten both your days. And you never know – maybe you will become friends!
Take a Class
Remember how much easier it was to make friends in school? Part of the reason for that was that you all showed up at the same time, shared a common goal, and could support one another. You can get back that feeling – and make a bunch of new friends – by signing up for a class now, as an adult. While you could take a continuing education class, there are other possibilities as well: dance classes, cooking classes, art classes, exercise classes, etc.
Join a Senior Living Community
Finally, if you’re wondering how to improve your social life as a senior, one of the best things you can do is join a senior living community. A senior living community brings together people of a similar age and offers a variety of social opportunities, from clubs and exercise classes to holiday parties and game nights. Plus, you can always make new friends over meals in the dining room. If you’re willing to try new things and “put yourself out there,” you’re sure to make some wonderful new friends.
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Socializing isn’t just fun; it can also benefit your mental and physical health. So if you’ve been feeling a little lonely of late, remember that there are a number of things you can do to make new friends and feel more socially connected. Good luck!
If you’re looking for a new home where you can enjoy your golden years, check out The Shores of Lake Phalen in Maplewood, Minnesota. Located in a wooded setting near two lakes, our community offers apartment-style housing with the atmosphere and elegance of a resort. Thanks to the team of dedicated staff members, residents enjoy a carefree lifestyle without the common worries of running a household. Schedule a tour to explore our community or give us a call at 651-777-7784. We look forward to hearing from you!