Change can be difficult and even intimidating for some, especially when you’re a senior who has lived in the same residence for many years. Moving to a new place can feel like you’re leaving friends and familiarity behind.
Fortunately, moving into a senior living community, like those that Bethesda Health Group offers, gives older adults ample opportunities to make new friends and create an active and rewarding lifestyle. While living alone in a big house can result in isolation and loneliness, being among their peers is sure to make anyone, especially seniors, feel much more connected to the world around them.
Here are some surefire ways to make new friends at Bethesda:
Eat restaurant-style meals in the dining area
Bethesda takes a lot of pride in offering exceptional meal options in a pleasant and comfortable atmosphere. While you’re welcome to eat in your own private apartment, venturing to the dining room for a nice meal provides the opportunity to socialize with fellow residents. After all, meal time is the perfect time to sit with others and make casual conversation, especially when it takes place only steps away from your front door.
Attend exercise classes or participate in a wellness program
With a wide variety of activities available at senior living communities, you’re sure to find something appealing to you. Join group exercise classes, take advantage of fitness equipment, or take a walk around the campus with fellow residents. After all, finding a workout buddy or two (or more) will make exercising fun!
Participate in group outings
Bethesda arranges regular outings for its residents, so all you have to do is show up! Go shopping, see a show or explore a local community event. The possibilities are endless!
Take advantage of the available amenities
Watch a performance by music and entertainment acts brought in to the community, have a good time at a happy hour celebration, attend a birthday party for one of your fellow residents, take an informative class or indulge your creative side at an art project gathering.
Don’t be a stranger to community areas
Although Bethesda prioritizes privacy for its residents, beautiful community areas are there for you to enjoy when you’re feeling sociable. Our common areas often host lots of card games, as well as residents gathering to watch movies or sporting events in a group setting.
Making Friends at Any Age
Now that you know what your options are, take advantage of them! Introduce yourself to others and sit with new people at meal times or activities. If they’ve been at Bethesda longer than you, ask them what their favorite events are so you can plan to be there, too. Attend as many different activities as you can to meet your fellow residents. Don’t sit in your apartment and wait for others to knock on your door. Go where the people are, contribute to the conversation and try new things. While some seniors are apprehensive about the idea of moving to a senior living community, once they’re there, they often have only one question: “Why did I wait so long?”
Learn more about how you can become an active member of a Bethesda community by visiting our website or set up a tour of one of our senior living communities to find the right fit for you. For more ways to stay connected to others in senior living communities, visit Bethesda’s blog.
