A 2023 survey found that 60% of Americans of all ages are lonely. While we may assume this primarily affects older adults, this just isn’t true anymore. In fact, some surveys illustrate that the younger generations (under 25) struggle with loneliness more than any other group.
Still, loneliness is a common issue among individuals as they age as kids leave their homes, friends and family pass away, and life changes happen. It can lead to feelings of isolation, depression, and even physical health problems. Fortunately, some strategies can help combat loneliness and improve overall well-being.
Staying social is important for maintaining a high quality of life as we age. Here are 12 strategies to consider:
1. Join a community group
Community groups provide opportunities for social interactions, from weekly meetings to special events and activities. These could be anything from a book club to an exercise class or even a volunteer organization. By joining a group, you can meet new people and form meaningful connections.
Staying actively involved in the community can also give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment, making it easier to combat feelings of loneliness.
2. Reconnect with family and friends
As we age, life often gets busy, and we can easily lose touch with those we care about. Take the time to reach out to old friends or distant relatives that you haven’t spoken to in a while. You may be surprised at how much you have in common and how easily the connection is rekindled.
Connecting with people you have a history with is an excellent way to combat loneliness, as they already know and care about you.
3. Use technology to stay connected
Technology has made it easier than ever to stay in touch with loved ones, even if they live far away. From video calls to social media platforms, technology can help bridge the distance gap and keep us connected on a regular basis. Setting up weekly meet-ups with friends or family through video calls can provide a sense of routine and social connection.
Even for those who may not be tech-savvy, plenty of resources and tutorials are available to help them learn how to use technology to stay connected.
On the other hand, avoid getting too caught up in technology, scrolling endlessly through social media feeds, and comparing your life to others. This can actually contribute to feelings of loneliness and isolation.
4. Be open to new experiences
Trying new things can be scary, especially as we age and become more set in our ways. However, being open to new experiences can provide opportunities for growth and connection with others.
Whether you sign up for a new exercise class or join a local club, stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to meeting new people and forming new relationships.
5. Get involved in your interests
Do you have a hobby or passion you’ve always wanted to pursue? Now is the perfect time! Plus, meeting people who share similar interests is a surefire way to form new, meaningful connections.
Taking an art class or volunteering for a cause you believe in can provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment and connect you with others who share your interests.
6. Be proactive about staying connected
As we age, getting caught up in our routines and daily tasks is easy. However, being proactive about staying connected with others is crucial. Make an effort to reach out and make plans with friends or family members regularly rather than waiting for them to initiate. This shows that you value the relationship and want to maintain it.
7. Consider getting a pet
Animals can provide companionship and love in ways that humans sometimes cannot. A pet can also help alleviate feelings of loneliness by providing a sense of purpose and routine. It’s important to consider what pet is best for your home and lifestyle before making a commitment. For example, dogs require more commitment to daily walks, whereas cats are lower maintenance but require regular litter box cleaning.
If pet ownership is not feasible, consider volunteering at an animal shelter or offering to walk a neighbor’s dog.
8. Attend local events and gatherings
Often, many events happen in your local community, from festivals to workshops. Attend these events to enjoy the activities and meet new people. You never know who you might connect with and form a lasting friendship.
9. Stay physically active
Regular physical activity not only benefits our physical health but also our mental and emotional well-being. Exercise releases endorphins, which can improve mood and reduce feelings of loneliness and depression. Additionally, joining group fitness classes or sports teams can provide opportunities for social interaction. It’s a win-win-win.
10. Invite others into your home
Hosting a dinner party or game night is a great way to bring people together and form connections. Plus, it’s more comfortable and less intimidating for some individuals to socialize in a familiar environment. Don’t be afraid to reach out and invite others over for some fun and laughter.
Instead of waiting for others to initiate, take matters into your own hands and create opportunities for socializing in your own home.
11. Seek support from a professional
Loneliness can be difficult to overcome, especially if it’s due to significant life changes such as losing a spouse or major health issues. In these cases, seeking support from a therapist or counselor can be helpful. They can provide guidance and tools for coping with loneliness and offer a listening ear.
12. Practice self-care
Finally, taking care of yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally is essential. Engage in activities that bring you joy and relaxation, whether reading a book, taking a bath, or going for a walk.
When we care for ourselves, we are better equipped to handle difficult emotions such as loneliness. A more positive disposition also makes us more approachable and open to forming new connections.
Loneliness is a common experience at any age. However, by staying actively involved in the community, reconnecting with loved ones, trying new things, and taking care of ourselves, we can combat feelings of loneliness and form meaningful connections with others.
14 Tough Parts About Getting Older No One Shares
Some people celebrate the first grey hair and the first wrinkle, while others are horrified at the first sign of aging and do all they can to eliminate it. The tell-tale signs of aging are met with varied reactions, but they all indicate one thing—no one will be left by this aging train.
14 Tough Parts About Getting Older No One Shares
19 Things You Shouldn’t Fear as You Get Older
As we grow older, it’s common for our fears to grow alongside us and sometimes hold us back from enjoying our lives. Many of these worries come from not knowing what will happen as we age. The media (social and news) also makes older folks unnecessarily fearful about their health and vitality- often painting a picture of disaster, decline, and disease.
19 Things You Shouldn’t Fear as You Get Older
17 Things We Like Less and Less as We Get Older
Humans are a lot like trees; we shed off parts of ourselves as we grow older. We lose what we once thought was deeply ingrained in us and acquire new habits and thinking patterns befitting our new age and wisdom.
17 Things We Like Less and Less as We Get Older
JayDee Vykoukal is a writer, author, mom, and Doctor of Physical Therapy. She has been writing about everything motherhood and health-related since 2018 when her first daughter was born, and she wanted to stay home. She loves to research new topics and fun facts with her kids to teach them about the world.
