- Join The Club! Nowadays, there’s a social club for everything! These groups exist for anything your heart desires–golfing, reading books, bird watching, painting, exercise classes, lunch groups, outings, shopping, sewing–the list goes on! Whether you join to advance a hobby or to learn something new, becoming a member is a great way to meet people who share similar interests. For some of our Seniors Helping Seniors® care receivers, however, being the “new person” can be nerve-racking and uncomfortable. But with the right attitude, you can make a great first impression! Try these tips to start:
●Make eye contact. This shows that you’re paying attention and indicates you respect the other person.
●Smile! Showing off your pearly whites is welcoming and puts other sat ease.
●Be sincere. Don’t force it if a connection doesn’t feel right or pretend to enjoy something you don’t.Still feeling the nerves? Ask your Seniors Helping Seniors® companion to tag along! Having afriend in tow can put you at ease and help facilitate conversation with people you’ve just met.
2.Connect OnlineSocial media groups provide a space to meet like-minded seniors as well. Like in-person clubs,there’s a group for every niche you can think of. And if what you’re searching for doesn’t yetexist, start it up yourself! Online groups are a great place to chat about common interests, sharephotos and information, and might even spur a face-to-face get together!Additionally, social media is a convenient way to learn about in-person events going on aroundthe community. Keep an eye out for garage sales, livemusic in the park, or pickle ball leaguesign-ups!If you struggle with using new technology or social media platforms, you’re not alone thereeither. Ask a Seniors Helping Seniors® caregiver to lend a hand. After all, two heads are betterthan one!3.FindYour “Spot”Explore places around town that interest you, like coffee shops, museums, or bookstores. Whenyou find a spot you love, start going there regularly. There are likely other ‘regulars’ whofrequent the establishment as well and may have hobbiessimilar to your own. Strike up aconversation by asking what they’re drinking or inquiring about the plot of their book. With time,you may find you both have a lot in common, turning this chance meeting into a “Same timenext week?” kind of relationship.Don’t forget–our Seniors Helping Seniors® caregivers make excellent companions too! Theylove trying new things and expanding on hobbies, so don’t hesitate to get them in on the fun.Because we spend time getting to know each caregiver through a detailed interview process,you and your caregiver likely have shared hobbies and interests that will make bonding abreeze!The bottom line is, it’s never too late to make a new friend! Though this process can beuncomfortable and difficult at times, the rewards you’ll experience make it all worthwhile
