Making friends in retirement can help promote healthy aging, yet retiring can make it more challenging to meet new people who could become friends. While retirement can open up a whole new world of possibilities, it also means leaving behind familiar workplace routines and connections.
Finding new ways to interact with other people, giving you the opportunity to form new friendships, requires effort. But it can pay off handsomely if you expand your social circle and develop even one or two solid relationships.
How To Make Friends in Retirement
When considering how to make friends in your 60s, 70s and beyond, one of your best moves may be a literal move — to a senior living community.
Retirement communities are an ideal option when it comes to seniors meeting seniors because they offer a multitude of ways for older adults to socialize. A community that provides a robust selection of enrichment activities — like we do at Highpoint at Stonecrest — sets you up with new opportunities every day to meet others who may enjoy some of the same interests you do.
You might also meet people who are quite different from you. This can be equally satisfying, as it can give you the chance to discover new interests and become friends with others you wouldn’t normally have gravitated toward.
Meeting Potential New Friends in a Senior Living Community
While many older adults decide to move to a community like Highpoint at Stonecrest specifically for the social aspect, it can be a little intimidating to start meeting new neighbors.
This may be especially true during the first few weeks, while new residents are adjusting to their surroundings. It can feel awkward at any age being the new person in a group or setting. And some people just naturally find it easier than others to socialize.
So, if you’re wondering how do seniors meet other seniors in a retirement community like Highpoint, these tips can be helpful.
Take your meals in a shared dining area.
You might be tempted to eat in your apartment right after you move, but accepting invitations for lunch or dinner in one of the community’s dining rooms or restaurants is an easy way to start getting to know your new neighbors. (And in a friendly community like ours, you will get invitations!)
Sign up for classes and activities.
You’ll find myriad options in your new community to participate in classes and activities, from exercise and wellness classes to card games, book clubs and an assortment of educational and creative activities.
Most communities, including ours, offer outings to local events, activities and venues. Some also plan day trips for residents. Joining your new neighbors on the community-provided transportation will give you a chance to engage in conversations on the way and back home again.
Be seen.
Often, all it takes to meet new people in your community is simply to make yourself available. Instead of watching TV in your apartment, make use of the common areas. Find a comfortable spot and read a while. Have a cup of coffee or tea in the community café. Go for a walk on the grounds — and take your dog if you have one. Pets are great for initiating conversations!
Here at Highpoint, we frequently have live entertainment and other events where all you have to do is show up and have a good time.
Extend your own invitations.
It’s typical for new residents to receive lots of invitations. Others are curious and want to learn more about the “new kids.” People may invite you to join them for dinner, a class, a walk or a cup of coffee.
But you don’t have to wait for someone else to invite you. Find residents who seem friendly and introduce yourself. If you feel comfortable doing so, ask them to join you for a meal or an activity. In a newer community like Highpoint, most residents will remember what it’s like to be a newbie.
Another idea is to connect with others who are also new to the community. Your shared “newness” provides common ground, and you can explore the community together.
Get acquainted with the staff.
At Highpoint, we make it a point to connect new residents with groups of residents who have similar interests. The more staff members get to know you, the greater the chances are that they’ll find things you have in common with others in the community.
Where Do Seniors Go To Meet Other Seniors Besides a Retirement Community?
For making new friends, retirement community activities are an excellent choice for many older adults. If you’re still debating whether to move to a senior living community, there are other ways of meeting seniors for friendship.
8 Ways To Make New Friends After 60
- If you have a community center or senior center nearby, check to see what kinds of activities and classes are available. Your library is another place to check for clubs, classes and events.
- Find a local or national organization that aligns with your interests and see if they are accepting volunteers. Some, like Meals on Wheels, serve mostly older adults.
- Look into classes available at a nearby community college or university. Many offer seniors free or discounted tuition on some courses.
- Become a member of a church, synagogue, or other place of worship. Some people find that a nondenominational organization provides the spiritual and social connections they seek.
- Take up yoga, tai chi or meditation. Or join a hiking group, or any other group that interests you. You can search online to find out what’s available in your area — Meetup may be a good place to start.
- Start taking trips. Maybe start with excursions close to home so you can be back the same day. Or, if you’re ready, sign up for a cruise. Some cater specifically to older adults.
- If you’re single, consider dating. There are online dating sites just for seniors, or you could ask friends or family members you trust to introduce you to someone they know. Even if you don’t find a romantic relationship, you may end up making some good friends.
- Get out of the house. Take a book or your tablet to a coffee shop for an hour or two. Go to the zoo or a museum. Visit a nearby park on a pretty day and enjoy being outside. You never know who you might meet while you’re at it.
We’re Here To Help You
It’s crucial for older adults to stay connected, which is why we place so much emphasis on providing a rich social environment here at Highpoint at Stonecrest. We hope this information comes in handy as you look for ways to make new friends.
If you’d like learn more about our senior living community in Summerfield, Florida, use our contact form to connect with us. You can also call 352-549-9210 to set up a time to visit.
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