IN FACT, FRIENDSHIP CAN BE A POWERFUL MEDICINE.
About one-third of adults, 45 and older, feel lonely, and many more adults over age 65 report being socially isolated. While loneliness has long been associated with a decline in mental health, it also poses an increased risk of dementia, heart disease and stroke. Finding quality friends is an obstacle at any age, but older adults may have a more difficult time. Some people never progress beyond the friends they made in school or college, or they stick with family members.
However, as we get older, former school friends may drift away, people pass on and friendship circles diminish. Finding friendship in your 70s can be fulfilling and rewarding. Consider joining clubs, participating in community activities, and being open to new experiences to foster connections. Friendship is crucial for mental health and physical health, especially as we age. Studies show that strong social networks can reduce the risk of loneliness, depression and even physical ailments. Engaging with others can significantly enhance your quality of life and overall happiness.
Strategies for making friends include: •Joining clubs and groups. Look for local clubs with common interests such as book clubs, gardening groups, or exercise classes. Regular participation helps build familiarity and rapport with others.
•Volunteering. Engaging in volunteer work not only allows you to give back to the community but also provides opportunities to meet likeminded individuals who share your values.
•Enrolling in classes that interest you such as art, cooking, or technology. Learning something new can be a great way to meet people and spark conversation. Often what is overlooked to making friends is proximity and continuing to show up.
•Frequenting local cafes, parks, or community centers. Becoming a familiar face can lead to casual conversations and potential friendships.
•Utilizing online platforms to explore online communities designed for adults such as AARP’s Senior Planet or platforms like Stitch: The Social Community for Anyone over 50, which help connect older adults with similar interests.
•Starting conversations. Don’t hesitate to initiate conversations with people you meet. A simple compliment or question can break the ice and lead to deeper discussion.
•Being open and vulnerable. Building new friendships often requires sharing personal experiences and being open to others. This vulnerability can foster deeper connections.
•Staying active. Engage in hobbies and activities that you enjoy. This not only enriches your life but also increases your chances of meeting new friends who share your passions.
•Recognizing that making new friends may feel challenging due to past experiences of social anxiety. It’s important to be patient with yourself and understand that building friendships takes time.
By actively seeking opportunities to connect with others, and being open to new experiences, you can successfully build meaningful friendships in your 70s.
Remember, it’s never too late to make new friends ...
Daniel J. Jachimiak, BA, is a writer and speaker. He can be reached at djachimiak@bex.net, LifeWithDan.blog or 419-787-2036. ✲
