There are numerous points in adulthood where one dreams to be retired. You no longer have to stress about work and different cultures, and all you have to look forward to are activities to fill up your time. However, some people may be scared for this moment to come. What if I do not have friends to spend time with? What if no one has time for me? You can put your worries to rest, as living communities for mature people allows you to meet other people your age who you can make friends with! Socialization is important at any age, and especially when you grow older. It keeps your brain stimulated and is a secret ingredient to a longer life. Living communities provide opportunities for people to interact to support socialization; so here are a few tips for you or your loved ones to make friends in living communities!
Sign Up for Group Activities
There are bound to be plenty of activities planned in living communities, and this only means one thing. Use them to your advantage! Sign up for all the activities you are interested in and meet new friends with the same hobbies! From gardening to arts and crafts, the world is your oyster! Of course, do not forget to add in exercise and aerobics to keep yourself fit! The more activities you join, the more chances for you to find beautiful friendships.
Go Out to the Common Areas
Some homebodies prefer to stay in their rooms the whole day and keep to themselves. While this is a trait no one can change, it does not help someone to make friends. Get out of your room and mingle with your other friends! Watch a movie in the living room, play some board games, or even if you just want to knit, doing it outside opens up opportunities for interactions to happen. Do not be afraid to talk to people and join them in their activities! You will never know what you are missing out on if you never try.
Eat with Different People During Mealtimes
One of the perfect places for bonding with friends or family would be the dining table. Sharing a meal is all it takes to start talking, so go ahead and sit with different groups of people! Find the group that makes you feel the most comfortable and try to develop common interests. This can be anything under the sun from television shows to sports. If you are an awkward socializer, try talking about more generic topics like travel and music.
Be Open-minded
Last but not least, do not stress if you are unable to make friends right away! These things take time, and you will make some eventually. In the meantime, keep your mind and heart open to trying new things. Interact with people you have not interacted with, even a simple hello will make someone else’s day. Friendships will naturally form, so prioritize yourself and do what makes you happy!
