Staying Social: How to Form Friendships as an Older Adult

As people age, maintaining and forming new friendships can become more challenging. Life transitions such as retirement, relocation, or the loss of loved ones can contribute to feelings of isolation. Staying socially connected is essential for emotional well-being and even physical health. Here are some practical ways older adults can stay connected and make new friends later in life.

Tips on making friends as an older adult

Engage in community activities. Participating in local events, classes, or workshops can introduce you to individuals with similar interests. Whether it's joining a book club, attending art classes, or participating in gardening groups, these activities provide natural settings for social interaction.

Volunteer your time. Volunteering offers a dual benefit. You can feel good about contributing to a cause you care about while benefiting from connecting with others. Activities like delivering meals, participating in community projects, or volunteering at your local hospital not only provide social engagement but also personal fulfillment.

Attend religious or spiritual gatherings. Places of worship often serve as community hubs, offering both spiritual enrichment and social opportunities. Attending services or joining study groups can connect you with like-minded individuals.

Leverage technology. The digital age has opened new avenues for connection. Joining online communities or social media groups centered around your interests can lead to meaningful interactions.

Pursue new hobbies. Exploring new interests can lead to meeting individuals outside your usual social circles. Whether it's learning a musical instrument, taking up painting, or joining a dance class, new activities can open doors to new friendships.

Join a group therapy program. Life's transitions, such as retirement or the loss of a loved one, can be challenging. Group therapy offers a space to share experiences and connect with others facing similar situations, fostering deep and understanding relationships.

Reconnect with past friends. Reaching out to old friends can rekindle meaningful relationships. Shared history can provide a strong foundation for renewed connections.

Embrace intergenerational friendships. Building relationships with individuals from different age groups can offer fresh perspectives and enrich your social life. Engaging in community activities that attract diverse age groups can facilitate these connections.

We can help

Our hospital-based outpatient group therapy program is designed to meet the unique needs of older adults experiencing depression and/or anxiety related to life changes that are often associated with aging or a chronic diagnosis. Anyone can make a referral to our program and referrals often come from friends and family. For more information or to refer someone you care about, please call the Saint Luke’s Senior Life Solutions program nearest you.

Anderson County Hospital Senior Life Solutions
421 S. Maple St., Garnett, KS 66032
Kristen Springston, Program Director
785-204-8043

Wright Memorial Hospital Senior Life Solutions
191 Iowa Blvd., Trenton, MO 64683
Shelby Todd, Program Director
660-357-4730
saintlukeskc.org/senior