Social Support Is Key To Healthy Aging

Connecting with others is an important part of healthy aging. As we get older, however, it can become harder to find opportunities to meet new friends.  

Here are just a few of the benefits of social support for healthy aging and how you can make friends in your retirement community. 

Why Does Social Support Matter?

At a basic level, having friends and being in a community with others is an important part of maintaining good mental health. But there’s even more to it than that.  

According to one study, “Older adults who interacted with people beyond their usual social circle of family and close friends were more likely to have higher levels of physical activity, greater positive moods and fewer negative feelings.” Having friends isn’t just good for your mind; it’s also good for your overall well-being and physical health. 

In addition, social connection helps combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, which are common among seniors. This is because regular social interactions provide companionship and emotional support.  

Read Blog: How To Avoid Depression After Retirement  

Having a community means you have someone checking on you in times when you need it most. You can lean on others and support them in return. 

Finding Social Support for Healthy Aging

So, you want to find more social support for healthy aging but aren’t sure where to start?  You aren’t alone! Many seniors find it difficult to make new friends, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. 

Start small. Look for a book club, social event or church service in your retirement community and make plans to attend. You can look for community in your everyday life, such as your weekly trip to the grocery store or on a walk to get your mail. Find others with similar interests and strike up a conversation. Ask about their children or grandchildren, or what they are currently reading. 

Take advantage of opportunities offered by your retirement community such as holiday parties or other gatherings. Ask the events coordinator if there are any volunteer opportunities. Lending your time is a great way to meet new people while contributing to a worthy cause. 

Finally, take it as an opportunity to learn something new. Have you always wanted to try woodworking or pottery? Taking a class with other beginners is another great way to build new connections while learning a skill – and having fun! 

Tips for Making New Friends and Enjoying Your Retirement

One benefit of retiring early is the added time to truly enjoy your retirement years. Find an active community where you can enjoy the company of other like-minded seniors.  

Read Blog: Considering an Early Retirement? Here’s What You Need To Know 

Don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. While taking the first step to meet someone new can be intimidating, a few moments of awkwardness are well worth the connections you might make. If you want to become someone’s friend, ask genuine questions and really listen to their response. Be open and share about your life when they ask questions in return. You never know – your new tennis partner or book club buddy could become a treasured friend.  

Healthy Aging at Advent Christian Village

Advent Christian Village is pleased to provide a community for our members in every sense of the word. From clubs and classes to gatherings and holiday events, everything we do is grounded in providing plenty of social support for healthy aging. Our convenient amenities, including transportation services, a local grocery store and recreation facilities, are the perfect place to make like-minded friends in your senior years. 

Schedule a tour at our faith-based retirement community today – we’d love to speak with you.    

Click here to read more Village Streams articles.