Loneliness in old age is a recurrent situation. Over the years, the obligatory means of socialization – such as school, college or work – are lost. As a result, the elderly spend a lot of time at home, and usually go out only for bureaucratic obligations or medical appointments.
Thinking about it, it can be lonely to spend so long without living with different people – whether they are of the same age group or not. Here are tips for making friends as an elderly person:
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How to make friends as an elderly person
According to studies, socialization is associated with a sense of belonging and happiness, which, in turn, can strengthen the system immunological and prevent the appearance of cardiovascular and psychological diseases, such as anxiety, panic syndrome and depression.
For this reason, it is always important for the elderly to keep in contact with people, whether they are family members or not, in order to strengthen ties and insert them into the reality of the world. Check out tips on approaches to making new friends:
Sign up for specific classes
Starting classes can be essential for seniors to have a place where they can take care of their health and, at the same time, make friends. In environments such as dance halls, gymnastics and hydrogymnastics, there are several collaborative activities that must be done in pairs or in teams. Thus, seniors will be able to bond and make friendships that can even extend beyond the class period.
Approach neighbors gently to build friendships
Making friends is an attitude that requires effort and patience. In a world where neighbors are less and less communicating with each other, taking the first step and offering your neighbor a dessert or inviting him to dinner can be an excellent way to strengthen ties with the person next to him and, at the same time, seem to be as distant.
Get back in touch with distant friends
Applications such as WhatsApp facilitated contact between friends, however, not always elderly people have a certain ease with chats. Therefore, phone calls or postcards are still the safest and most effective ways to get in touch with friends in this age group. This first step can be very important to strengthen ties and miss that person who is and has always been very dear in your life.