Sometimes older adults move to be closer to their adult children so that help is available when they need it. They may even move in with their children. And, sometimes, seniors move to smaller houses to lessen the work of caring for a home. When these changes take them away from their friends, they may become lonely. When they were younger, they met new people at work or through the school activities they took their children to. But, with those activities no longer part of their lives, how can older adults make new friends? Below are some ideas for helping your aging relative to meet new people.
Volunteer.
Research has shown that people who volunteer live longer lives. Volunteering can also keep seniors active in their neighborhoods. For those who are new to a community, volunteering can be a great way to meet new people. When they volunteer, not only are older adults giving back to their new community, they will also find themselves working side by side with people with whom they have at least one thing in common. Volunteering is an instant conversation starter, and can lead to true friendships.
Continue to Engage in Hobbies.
Being active in a hobby can be an excellent way to meet new people, too. When seniors are passionate about something and attend classes, workshops, or other events that showcase their hobby, they will likely meet people who share their interests. Even shopping for supplies for a hobby offers an opportunity for older adults to meet new people. For example, if your mom loves to quilt and goes to a quilting supply store, she’ll see other people in the store who also enjoy the hobby. The shop may also offer classes and seminars where she can meet even more people.
Take a Class.
And speaking of classes, they are another good place to meet people with similar interests. Learning something new can also be exhilarating and give older adults something to look forward to. Many communities have free or low-cost classes available through a variety of places. The local library may hold seminars and classes on everything from basic computer skills to local history. They may also have book clubs for seniors to join. The senior center may also be able to provide information about classes, or may offer classes themselves.
Volunteering, hobbies, and classes are just a couple of ways that older adults can make new friends. There are many other options, as well. If your aging relative has recently moved to a new community and is struggling to get out because of mobility problems, consider hiring an elder care provider to assist them. An elder care provider can help seniors to get ready for an outing by assisting them with dressing and grooming. Elder care providers can also drive older adults wherever they need to go, then pick them up when they are done. And, if the senior needs assistance walking into the building, an elder care provider can help with that, too.
If you or an aging loved one needs elder care in Folsom, CA, remember Senior Home Care Services. Call us at (916) 514-7006 for more information.
Sources
https://www.nationalservice.gov/pdf/healthbenefits_factsheet.pdf
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