Friends In Retirement
A younger person may have easily found new friendships in school, work or through mutual family and friends. Retirement brings a different approach. However, a positive attitude toward friendship generally results in a long, happy and healthy retirement, one surrounded by friends.
Local Clubs
One way to find new friends is by joining a local Senior group or club where there are people with the same interests as you. Most clubs are offered at no cost to Seniors. Find a few in your area and study what is offered. Here are some examples of clubs worth looking at:
- Sports Club – We know being physically active and exercising is important. It may be difficult to keep up with the youngsters, but a Senior sports club is perfect to maintain health and initiate conversations. There may even be an opportunity for some light-hearted competition.
- Book Club – Brains also need stimulation. Book Clubs do improve brain function, expand cognition and open the path to lively discussions with others.
- Knitting Club – Knitting has been proven to reduce cognitive impairments up to 50 percent and also helps lower stress levels, improve moods and open the door to new ideas.
- Senior Centers – Amazing recreational activities as well as social and supportive services are found in Senior Centers. Each Senior Center varies in the events it hosts but there are always a good meal, laughter, and fellowship.
- Continuing Education Groups – Learning never ends. There are organizations such as The Osher Lifelong Learning Institute where courses are offered for Seniors. You may even find Seniors giving the classes!
Volunteer
Seniors who volunteer meet new people in a variety of scenarios. Studies show volunteering has wonderful benefits: lower mortality, decreased rates of depression, fewer physical limitations and higher levels of well-being compared to Seniors who do not volunteer. Contact local organizations or visit Senior Corps where an easy process to find local volunteer opportunities exists.
Not sure what volunteering could be? Here are some ideas:
- Collect, serve, prepare, & distribute food
- Fundraise
- Tutor or teach
- Mentor youth
- Collect, make, or distribute clothing
- Help local fire or police departments
Keep Existing Friends
A long-lasting friendship is forged by demonstrating you too should be a good choice for a friend. Say hello, ask questions and listen more, especially during the early stages of friendship. Bring a friend a meal after surgery, ask about their day or accompany them to their doctor’s appointment and show you care. In return, you will be the recipient of a strong mutual friendship. Attend regular activities, create a structure for getting together and always maintain past friendships while cultivating new ones.
Bridge to Better Living
Retirement is an exciting time to build friendships and open doors to new opportunities. If you are thinking of moving to a Retirement Community contact Bridge to Better Living. Their expert guidance and resources are at no cost to you. Contact Bridge to Better Living today! Consider them your new best friend in this unique life chapter.