Making New Friends As a Senior
As we age, it can become more and more difficult for us to venture outside of our comfort zones. Aging can often be a lonely process, so it’s important to be able to find connections with new people. Many of us can feel frustrated, or even apprehensive about the prospect of making new friends as a senior. You or your senior has most likely had the same group of friends for decades now, so the idea of introducing someone new into your life can be overwhelming. Luckily, there are a few things to remember when you morph back into that social butterfly.
Tips For Making New Friends As a Senior
1. Find a Sport or Hobby
We all remember those childhood friends we made while we were on the school football team, or in the school theater group. These relationships can often last through our young-adult years, so there’s no reason why you can’t strike up a new relationship well into your senior years.
One of the easiest ways to make friends is to find a new sport or hobby that you enjoy. Engaging in one of these activities is a great way to meet like-minded people who want to connect with other seniors that have similar interests. Making new friends as a senior can be tough, but hopefully finding a new hobby or activity can expand your friend circle.
2. Make the First Move
One of the biggest mistakes that many seniors will make is assuming that their counterparts will approach them first. Unfortunately, the majority of seniors will often feel hesitant to approach someone unfamiliar, so it’s important that you muster up the courage to start a conversation. This is by far the toughest part of making new friends, but once your spark up a conversation, this could lead to a whole new friendship for many.
3. Ask For Help
You might want to ask your children or other friends for help finding new friends. Whether it’s the parents of a friend or someone they work with, your children might be the necessary link for making new friends as a senior. While we realize it can seem embarrassing to ask someone for help making friends, remember that they are only focused on looking out for your best interest. Make sure that your children create a comfortable atmosphere for you and your prospective friend so you can both remain at ease.
4. Take a Part-Time Job
Another great way that many seniors are making friends is to pick up a part-time job. Not only is it a nice form of supplemental income, but it’s also a great way to meet new people and make new friends. Many will often enjoy the company of others outside of work, and what’s better than complaining about work to those who understand exactly how you’re feeling. A part-time job is also a great way to find someone who wants to join you on adventures outside of work. Finding a travel companion is a great way to enjoy your surroundings while embarking on adventures with a good friend.
5. Get a Furry Friend
Get a dog if you're an animal lover. Conversations with other dog walkers are guaranteed, and even people without pets will stop to say hello to Max, giving you the perfect opener. Can't have a pet? Volunteer at your local shelter. These furry friends are perfect for making new friends as a senior and are the ideal conversation starter for many.
6. Get Online!
Another great way to connect with others is to get online and explore. Whether it’s rekindling a friendship from years ago or meeting someone completely new, Facebook and other social media sites are a perfect way to seniors to connect with their peers as they try to make new friends. However, you might want to have someone familiar with social media double check who you’re talking to -- especially if you haven’t met them in person. Unfortunately, there are some unsavory people out there who will try to swindle money away by posing as a friend. Make sure that you truly know who is behind the screen before you think about disclosing personal information or sending them money.
