Top 6 Ways for Seniors to Meet Seniors

For anyone, socializing is an important means of creating connections that help build happiness and joy. Seniors who share time with those who have had similar life experiences not only avoid loneliness and feelings of isolation, they stay connected with their community, sharing new ideas, experiences and resources.

Why is Socializing Important?

Companionship and conversation spark joy in seniors’ lives. They feel a sense of belonging when getting together with family, friends and acquaintances. Studies have shown that seniors who engage in regular social activities are more likely to maintain cognitive function, emotional stability and a positive outlook on life. Moreover, maintaining contact with family and friends, and exploring new opportunities for friendship can decrease feelings of isolation, which can lead to depression and anxiety.

Benefits of Socializing for Seniors

By participating in conversation, group events and shared hobbies, seniors are more likely to feel motivated and energized, leading to increased mental stimulation. This, in turn, promotes a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, fostering a positive outlook on life. As they forge new connections and strengthen existing relationships, seniors can also create a strong support network that contributes to their emotional well-being.

Keeping the body active is just as important as stimulating the mind, and social activities often involve both. Engaging in group exercises, for example, not only helps seniors maintain physical fitness but also offers a chance to bond with others. It also has an indirect effect on physical health—happy, engaged seniors are more likely to take care of their overall well-being.

6 Great Social Activities for Seniors

There are a number of opportunities for seniors to engage socially with others. Here are some options for you or the senior in your life:

1. Attend Adult Day Care Centers
   Adult day care centers provide peace of mind for caregivers and interesting activities for seniors. Most importantly, they offer the opportunity for socialization. Seniors feel a sense of purpose by enjoying art, music or light exercise, all while creating connections that bring a lot of joy. Many people attend on a regular basis, which fosters rich friendships.

2. Join a Senior Center
   Many cities and towns have senior centers with a wide variety of activities and classes, as well as opportunities to meet other seniors. Click to learn how to get involved in your local senior center.

3. Take a Class or Join a Club/Group
   Look for classes or clubs that are specifically geared towards seniors, such as book and gardening clubs, or art classes. There are volunteer organizations that provide opportunities for seniors to get involved in their communities, such as the Alzheimer’s Association or animal shelters.

4. Attend a Senior Social Event
   Many community centers and churches host weekly or monthly get togethers specifically for seniors. These events provide seniors with ample opportunities to mingle and make new friends, and can feature a variety of activities, such as game nights, potlucks, guest speakers or themed parties.

5. Online Communities
   There are many online communities geared towards seniors which offer the ability to interact and forge relationships from the convenience of your computer. From Facebook groups and discussion forums to senior-specific dating sites and hobby-based communities, seniors can find like-minded individuals who share their interests, experiences and challenges. Some options to consider are Senior Planet, Elder Wisdom Circle and Sixty and Me.

6. Live in a Senior Living Community
   Senior communities are designed with the needs of seniors in mind, providing services and amenities to make life easier and more enjoyable. Seniors discover new ways to socialize with restaurant-style dining, regular shared activities, festive events and outings. In a safe, secure living environment, seniors have the opportunitiy for companionship and the support of skilled care teams. Best of all, there is the privacy of a comfortable apartment and social life right there in the community, ready and available any time. Community living helps seniors stay active and engaged, which can improve physical and mental health.

Visit an American House near you!
At American House, our residents enjoy a maintenance-free lifestyle that offers chef-prepared meals, social opportunities and festive events where they meet new people and create rich friendships. Visit a community near you and meet our dedicated team and our residents. Let’s do lunch or happy hour!