“Things are never quite as scary when you’ve got a best friend.” – Bill Watterson, creator of the Calvin and Hobbes comic
Friendship is a powerful thing. It is the answer to the human instinctual need for connection and companionship. Friends come into your life at a time when you need them most. From childhood playmates to workplace colleagues who turned into lifelong friends, there has been someone you could turn to for a laugh or support during tough times. As we age, friendship is even more critical but also can be more challenging. That’s where social activities at retirement communities can bring older adults together while also positively impacting physical, emotional and mental well-being.
One of the many benefits of friendship and a perk to living in a retirement community is combating feelings of loneliness. According to recent studies, loneliness has been linked to many negative health consequences, including a higher risk of developing dementia, depression and even heart disease. The former U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murphy described our nation experiencing an “epidemic of loneliness and isolation as an underappreciated public health crisis” and can shorten lives. He compares the effects of loneliness to being the equivalent of smoking 15 cigarettes a day.
Not on our watch! In retirement communities, we understand the value of companionship and comradery.
“Socialization plays an important role in the quality of life for our residents,” explains Carol Ditman, Senior Executive Director of Programming at Country Meadows Retirement Communities. “It’s not just about staying busy, it is about creating opportunities for shared experiences that foster an environment where residents feel supported, valued and truly alive. It’s about finding joy and spending time with neighbors who become friends.”
Making friends through social activities at retirement communities can be a fun way to meet people with similar interests and life experiences and build relationships. If it’s been a while since you made a new friend, these tips could help you make connections:
1. Participate in social activities
Retirement is a time to reengage with previously loved hobbies and interests. After years of hard work with a career and raising a family, now is the time older adults get to focus on their own health and well-being. In retirement communities, residents’ daily schedules can be full and fun. During on-campus activities and off-campus excursions, there are many opportunities for residents to meet and bond over shared interests. For example, the happy hours that take place at each of our campuses are a very popular activity that creates a relaxing atmosphere for all residents to meet in a low-pressure environment and talk about their day.
2. Don’t underestimate the power of a “hello”!
Something as simple as a smile and a quick hello could be a gesture a new friend needs to start the introduction. Carrying yourself as welcoming and kind makes you approachable and a cue that you are open to meeting new people.
3. Join clubs or groups
In our communities, there are book clubs, walking groups, garden clubs, bible studies, veterans’ groups and many more to bring like-minded residents together to bond over their shared interests or experiences. Additionally, if there currently is not an organized group for a resident’s interest, our co-workers work with the resident to bring a club to life. For example, a drama club and newspaper club were recently established at our Frederick campus with resident leaders.
4. Attend meals in person
Social activities at retirement communities often take place in common areas and no better common area than the dining room! Sharing a meal with fellow residents is a natural time for conversation and daily check-ins with neighbors in the community.
5. Offer and ask for help
Helping others or seeking assistance from others is a great opportunity for connection. By helping others, you are lending your experience or expertise. And, by asking for help you are showing openness that can welcome a conversation.
Social activities at retirement communities owned by Country Meadows
At Country Meadows Retirement Communities, we know you are never too old to make friends and even the smallest gesture could be the invitation to an introduction. There are many social benefits to living in a retirement community. To help guide new residents, we have Resident Ambassadors-the welcoming committee for new residents. They help residents get acclimated to their new home, encourage them to join in activities and make sure they are aware of the opportunities to be involved.
“It is one of our great joys to see residents who come to us after feeling isolated to now being happy and thriving on our campus,” said Carol. “Whether facing health issues that limited mobility, not living near family or limited by transportation issues, retirement communities remove the barriers to connection and create experiences for residents to re-connect with what brings them life.”
Did you know …
You don’t have to be a resident to check out our programming. Social activities at retirement communities owned by Country Meadows are open to the public that give you a glimpse into what life and socialization in retirement communities can be like. It is a great chance to meet some of our residents and make friends at Country Meadows. Contact a campus near you and consider joining us for an upcoming event. We can’t wait to meet you!
