4 Ways Aging Adults Can Develop New Friendships | Senior Helpers Chicago
Skip main navigation
Serving Greater Chicagoland and surrounding areas.
Type Size
Serving Greater Chicagoland and surrounding areas.
Past main navigation Contact Us
4 Ways Aging Adults Can Develop New Friendships

4 Ways Aging Adults Can Develop New Friendships

Many have lost old friends, family members, spouses, and don't know how to connect with others late in life. While others might be afraid, you should not at all worry about developing a friendship with someone who shares your interest. Having someone in your life means you do not have to spend all your time alone.

No one will ever replace the friends and loved ones you have lost. However, you can make new memories with new friends. Spending time can be fun, enjoyable, and rewarding. Vacations and gatherings can be a lot more pleasurable when you are doing it with someone who enjoys the same things as you. Some friends make wonderful dancing and traveling partners. Here are 4 ways aging adults can develop new senior friendships.

Look for Seniors Interested in Your Hobbies 

Most people have some type of hobby or craft they enjoy doing. Whether it is wood shop building, knitting, quilting, or photography, it is done so much better when having another person around. A great place to find friends interested in specific hobbies are in programs or classes offered in your community. You might even find someone in church to develop a new senior friendship with.

Check Your Existing Social Network

One of the best friendships could be rekindling an old friendship you once had. You might also know someone from your past that could put you back in contact with an old friend. Take a step out of your comfort zone and send an old friend an email or instant message. Seeking out friends is nothing to be ashamed of doing. In fact, more people do it than you may imagine.

Try New Hobbies

It could be the things that you love to do, don't necessarily have people knocking down your door to share your excitement. In this case, it might be necessary to find a new hobby that gets a lot of attention. It could be you always wanted to learn how to swim or quilt.  If so, enroll in a class, it is a great way to meet new people. Talking to strangers can be scary, but don't be afraid to take a chance on people. Just remember, when meeting with someone new on your own, do it in a public place. Be sure other people are around and if possible let someone in your family know where you will be.

Give Friends of the Opposite Sex a Chance

You might not be looking for love, but friends can be just about anyone at any age and gender. As people age the dynamic between male and female relationships often change. Most seniors are just looking for friendship and want to keep it at that. If there is a man or woman who shares your similar interests, ask them out for coffee or a walk in the park. Who knows, this might be the start of a brand new wonderful friendship.

To learn more about developing new senior friendships or hiring a home caregiver for a companion in the Des Plaines, Elmhurst, and Oak Brook areas, visit us today!