One of the most difficult aspects of getting older is the loneliness and isolation that can begin to creep in. For many seniors, a lack of mobility or the inability to drive can cause them to feel cut off from their favorite people or activities. But having friends and meaningful relationships is important for every senior’s emotional and physical well-being – and making new friends in creative ways is a great way to ensure interaction with others.
Loneliness can cause depression, precede dementia, and cause physical symptoms and health failure. Making new friends can help!
New Friends in Familiar Places
Seniors may have lost their ability to drive, but loved ones should still facilitate transportation to their favorite activities. Whether picking them up personally or arranging a ride-share, helping your loved one to get to a meal with friends or to their weekly church service allows them to continue familiar habits they love. Even if some of their friends no longer attend, being in a comfortable place makes it a lot easier to meet new friends and develop new relationships. After all, welcoming the new attendees to someplace you love is a great way to feel needed and fulfilled.
New Friends in New Places
Sometimes it can be difficult to continue to attend events or activities when long-time friends no longer attend. This may be a great time to try a new place, join a new club, or pick up a new hobby. If your loved one has an interest, help them to find a like-minded group and attend a few times with them until they make new friends. Encouraging this social behavior will give them the confidence they need to go out on their own.
Seniors who move to a senior neighborhood or a senior living residence put themselves in the ideal situation to make new friends. These communities typically have active social calendars that include daily walking groups, fitness classes, and hobby groups such as cooking classes, arts and crafts, or trips to the theater. Many people move into adult living residences without knowing anyone and so are likely looking for opportunities to meet new people and try new things.
Assisted Living Activities
One of the most attractive aspects of an assisted living facility is that it puts hundreds of potential friends in the same facility. Seniors have the opportunity to meet new friends at meals, events, and activities – and simply walking down the hallway! The structure of these communities is such that there are hundreds of ways to meet new people and cultivate friendships. If families are worried about their loved one isolating in their room, they can take steps to make sure they are engaging with others. The most important thing to do is to visit often and attend activities and social events with their family member to make sure they feel comfortable. They can share meals with other residents and facilitate conversations. They can also speak to the administrative staff to ensure that their loved one is not sitting in their room alone.
Don’t Forget Pets: Dogs or cats can become the most cherished of friends for someone who feels alone. If your senior loved one is still able to care for a pet and their facility allows it – consider adopting a dog or cat from a local shelter. Pets are wonderful companions and can help lonely seniors to rediscover a sense of purpose and affection.
A Banyan Residence is an assisted living and memory care community located in The Villages. Call today for a tour and to learn more about our commitment to our residents.
