Typically, making friends is something that just happens. It has
never been something that you had to give alot of thought. When you
were in school it was who sat next to you in class. As a parent, it
was often the parents of your children's friends or the neighbors
who also have kids. But after you've retired or even relocated, you
might find yourself twiddling your thumbs and contemplating how to
go about making some new friends. Suddenly there seem to be fewer
opportunities to meet new people and when you do make an attempt,
you might feel awkward and a tad rusty.
According to research, close relationships are essential for our
physical, mental and emotional health. Even our self-esteem and
longevity hinge on close relationships. If you find yourself
eagerly anticipating the postal worker's arrival so you can pick up
yesterday's conversation or if you order take out because it could
result in a conversation with the delivery person, it might be time
to shake up your routine and sharpen those friend making
skills.
Here are a few ideas to get you going:
- Consider checking out some continuing-education classes at your
local college or university. Several colleges offer classes
specifically for older adults. If you're on a budget, many
colleges will allow older adults audit classes for free.
- Start accepting invitations regardless of your
reservations. Getting out more increases your chances of
meeting new people.
- There's a lot more to senior centers than bingo. Some have a
variety of classes and activities. Stop by your local senior center
to see what piques your interest.
- If you're retired, taking a part time job will expose you to an
entire new group of people. The extra cash in your pocket won't
hurt either.
- Get to know your neighbors by organizing a potluck or consider
cooking for them.
- Volunteering at the local animal shelter, hospital, church,
museum or school can be an excellent way to meet new people with
similar interest.
- Join a gym and sign up for a class that meets weekly. You'll
more than likely see the same people each week.
- If you love animals, get a dog. Not only are they great
companions, they'll also take you for long walks that could lead to
conversations with other dog owners in area or random people that
stop to pet your dog.
- If you are of a certain faith, but haven't really practiced it
much over the last few years, consider joining a church of your
faith. They often have a multitude of social activities and are
great about welcoming new folks.
- Try logging on to Meetup.com. Enter your zip code and you'll find
tons of groups in your area focusing on a variety of different
activities that you could check out.
If you take the time to pursue your own interests on a
consistent basis (cooking classes, tennis, book clubs etc.) you are
likely to find others with the same interests. Don't trick yourself
into thinking everybody already has all the friends they need. Life
shifts and changes, people come and go and there are a lot of
people looking for a few new friends. Find your sense of adventure
again and be willing to take the risk and ask for an email or phone
number. Finding new friends may take a little work at first, but
the outcome could be a great friend that will last a
lifetime.
Carrie Robertson
Research & Community Education
Chicago Skilled Nursing
Chicago Senior
Living