The Talk: 5 ways Seniors can make new friends and avoid isolation

A conversation about engaged living for seniors

The topic of Senior Isolation has been getting a great deal of attention lately. In fact, the American Association for Retired Persons (AARP) Foundation identified certain factors that increase the risk of becoming isolated. Some of those include:

• Living alone
• Losing a close family member or friend
• Retiring
• A low income

Isolation has been associated with people developing more chronic illnesses and a decline in a senior’s mental health. While family plays an important role in helping a senior family member remain active and engaged, here are five ways a senior can also work toward an active and engaged lifestyle:

1. In an appropriate manner, create a social media presence for themselves. Social media can connect seniors with others that are like-minded.
2. Stay active by signing up for a class to explore a hobby or area of interest. There are many opportunities for seniors to explore with other seniors – classes can range from art to adventure; history to horticulture.
3. Keep your mind engaged and meet new people through volunteering. There are many organizations that benefit from, and want, senior volunteers.
4. Stay fit and join an exercise group. Seniors can find opportunities for highly structured exercise classes or more informal opportunities to join a walking club.
5. Keep working. In today’s high-employment environment, many organizations are looking for part-time help where a senior’s experience and skills would be an asset.
   

The Talk: 5 ways Seniors can make new friends and avoid isolation is one in a series of conversations for seniors provided by the Mirowitz Center. For more information, visit www.mirowitzcenter.org.