QUALITY OF LIFE
You Are Never Too Old!
Building New Relationships is Key to Better Health and a Higher Quality of Life
Meeting new people and making new friends are vital activities, especially as we age. Good friends can be powerful medicine for what ails us. Social isolation and loneliness are serious concerns that affect too many people. According to the NIH, approximately 1 out of every 4 Americans aged 65 and older are socially isolated, and almost half of Americans aged 60 and older report feeling lonely. More and more, research is finding that social isolation and loneliness put people’s health at risk:
- Social isolation has been associated with a significantly increased risk of premature mortality from all causes;
- Social isolation has been associated with an approximately 50 percent increased risk of developing dementia;
- Loneliness among heart failure patients has been associated with a nearly 4 times increased risk of death, 68 percent increased risk of hospitalization, and 57 percent increased risk of emergency department visits; and
- Poor social relationships have been associated with a 29 percent increased risk of coronary heart disease and a 32 percent increased risk of stroke.
Volunteer. Consider volunteering at a local school, charity organization, museum, library, garden, or community organization. Volunteering can help you feel appreciated and meet new people.
Take a class. You are never too old to learn something new. Many local universities, recreation centers, and libraries offer free or discounted classes for seniors.
Get active. Join a gym or fitness center. Or how about a walking group, a bowling league, or taking dance lessons? Group sports like bocce ball, tennis, pickleball, or golf are also excellent options.
Visit a senior center. If you live at home, visit a senior center. These facilities offer a variety of activities and social groups.
Adopt a pet. Animals provide companionship and lead to wonderful interactions with other pet owners and pet lovers.
Talk to your neighbors. Chat with your neighbors by the mailbox or organize a block party.
Attend local events. You can meet and bond with new people at local events like a farmer’s market, concert, or festival.
Stay connected online. You can use the internet to connect with acquaintances and strengthen existing relationships.