One aspect of aging is the feeling of your world starting to get smaller. Perhaps it’s getting more difficult to go out for groceries or meet your friends for bridge. Loneliness can come into someone’s life slowly, and it’s not always easy to notice. But that doesn’t have to be your story.
You can meet people who bring new energy into your life no matter your age. Just as important, you can bring new energy into theirs. Here are some ways you can start widening your social circle again:
Lend a helping hand. It’s always nice to feel useful. Helping the people around you is a way to get some activity in while also starting to build relationships with them. You could babysit, walk someone’s dog or even help with your expertise — if you know your way around a toolbox, you could give advice for your neighbor’s DIY project or even just lend out tools. It helps you get to know more about each other while also giving you the good feeling that comes from brightening someone’s day
Take advantage of structure. You don’t always have to do the work of coming up with ways to socialize — sometimes it gets done for you. There are activities going on all around you in your community: most community centers have classes and programs, such as yoga or aquafit; local businesses may host regular activities like knitting circles or game nights. Some museums even organize events such as hands-on group seminars or local history walks.
One place to look for structured activities is at a retirement community. Many residences run a range of events, such as poker games, art and exercise classes, gardening and day trips.
“When someone moves into the community, we really do see their world open up and become wider,” says George Kakaletris, vice president of resident engagement at Aspira Retirement Living. “It’s a rewarding experience, providing the setting for people to come together and make new connections. When people form a community, they can truly enrich each other’s lives.”
You still have to put in the effort — having opportunities won’t help if you don’t take advantage of them. Leaving home and engaging with your neighbors and community keeps you connected to the social fabric that’s all around you. You’ll benefit greatly from that — and everyone else will benefit from you being a part of that fabric, too.
You can learn more about maintaining a rich social life in your golden years at aspiralife.ca.
— News Canada
