In younger years, we often have opportunities to make friends through school, work or with people in your neighborhood. But now, you may have retired or relocated, and making acquaintances can be a bit trickier. Learn about some ways you can connect with new people in your golden years.
While you definitely shouldn't do anything that makes you feel uncomfortable, accepting invitations to social events with people who have similar interests is a great way to make new friends. At Broadmoor Court, for example, there are weekly outings for the Senior Center dance, shopping at Walmart and jewelry making. Find an event that interests you and attend — sometimes friends are found in the most unlikely places.
Whether it's dominoes, cooking classes, yoga or reading, one of the best ways to make friends is by pursuing hobbies and activities that interest you. You could start a book club with a few other avid readers, for example.
The Bible says in Revelations 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in to him and eat with him, and he with me.”
You, too, can share a meal with neighbors. Cook up one of your favorite dishes right in your apartment and serve it to a few neighbors. If it's enjoyable, it could turn into a weekly or biweekly event, and you and your neighbors can take turns hosting.
At Broadmoor Court, pets are welcome, including small dogs and cats. When you're out walking your dog, it makes a great conversation starter for anyone who sees you, including other dog walkers.
If you log into meetup.com and enter your zip code, you'll find dozens, or even hundreds of social groups in your area that focus on everything from animals to writing to mediation.
See someone sitting alone during dinner? Take the initiative and ask to sit down with them. The worst they can say is no thank you, and then you can just move along. Sometimes, the best way to make a friend is to be friendly to others.
If you have a social media account, you can use that to reconnect with people you haven't spoken to in a long time. This can turn into regular email exchanges, and who knows, maybe they live nearby so you can meet up for lunch or coffee sometime.
