Making new friends is a key part of the health and well-being of seniors. However, it might not be as easy as it was when they were younger. Still, with the support of their veterans care at home team and loved ones, they can have a thriving social life that provides them with the necessary benefits and satisfaction in their older years.
Consider the following tips to help seniors succeed in making friends.
Remind Them to Stay Friendly and Open: Encourage seniors to attend social events with an open mind and a positive mood. Also, be mindful that these situations might be scary for them, especially if they’re still processing their feelings about getting older.
Encourage Them to Follow Their Interests: Seniors should do the things they like to do, whether that’s joining a book club, a gardening group, taking art classes, or going to community events. The veterans care at home team can also encourage them to try something new, as learning new things provides a boost to their cognitive functioning.
Talk With Them About Volunteering: Volunteering is a great way for seniors to meet other people who are also interested in helping others. It also gives them a sense of purpose and pride. There are many places seniors can volunteer, from animal shelters to schools.
Encourage Them to Use Technology: Social media sites and internet groups can help seniors meet people who share their interests, background, or experiences. With support from the veterans care at home team and loved ones, seniors can learn how to navigate these sites and be safe while using them.
Encourage Activity: Being active is good for senior health and can also be a way to meet new people. Seniors can meet other active, outgoing people by joining an exercise class, a walking group, or a sports club.
Encourage Participation: Loved ones and the senior home care team can encourage seniors to participate in groups, accept invitations, and be consistent in leaving home to enjoy themselves. Too often, seniors find comfort in staying home, which leads to decreased socialization and depression.
Role-Play: Seniors might feel self-conscious about starting conversations with strangers or joining groups where they don’t know anyone. The veterans care at home team can practice conversations with them, teaching them active listening skills and encouraging them to step outside of their comfort zone. They can encourage seniors to share their hobbies, experiences, and thoughts to open up and receive conversation in return. Above all, seniors should be themselves to make real connections.
Growing older brings on a number of changes, and many of these make it harder for seniors to remain as active as they once did. Not only that, but these changes might cause them to doubt their ability to make new friends. With patience and care, the veterans care at home team and loved ones can encourage seniors to believe in themselves and regain the confidence needed to start new hobbies, increase their socialization, and meet new people.
Sources: https://seniorservicesofamerica.com/blog/11-tips-for-making-friends-when-you-re-older/
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/changepower/202211/12-ways-make-friends-in-mid-life-and-beyond
https://www.healthline.com/health/how-to-make-friends-at-any-age
If you or an aging loved one are considering Veterans care at Home Services in Southaven TN please contact the caring staff at Senior Solutions Home Care. (901) 300-8576
Senior Solutions Home Care is a Trusted Home Care Agency serving Memphis, Germantown, Collierville, Lakeland, Hernando, Olive Branch, Arlington, Atoka, Southaven, Bartlett, Marion, Shelby County, and surrounding areas.
Over the years, we have expanded, providing service in all 95 counties throughout Tennessee, and we now have a growing presence in Georgia.
Senior Solutions is recognized as a top 5% independent agency and a three-time Inc. 5000 honoree in 2018, 2019, and 2020. These types of awards matter to us because they show growth in our goal of eventually touching a million lives. We’re excited to continue that growth and to touch even more families with our commitment to quality care!
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