
Undoubtedly the benefits of healthy socialization for seniors are many, from increasing self-esteem to cognitive support. Maybe you understand these benefits but hesitate accepting the challenge of taking a new class or learning a new skill. You’d like to broaden your horizons but not at your age. Hogwash! Seniors are more capable than they know according to a study from the University of California – Riverside. They concluded that when older adults applied themselves to simultaneously learn multiple real-world skills, their cognitive abilities started to improve. This improvement was even measurable in as little as 6 weeks, to levels similar to middle-aged adults some 30 years younger! (1) Sounds good but don’t know where to start? Keep reading because in this article we have compiled over 90 suggestions to help seniors find interesting activities that are challenging and fulfilling. First we’ll discuss why some seniors are not more socially active. Then we’ll take a closer look at the benefits of being more socially active and finish with a “brain-storm” activity list!
Causes of Social Isolation in Elderly
Seniors may be less socially active due to a variety of factors, including physical and mental health issues, limited mobility, lack of confidence, fear of crime, and lack of transportation. Additionally, the pandemic has caused many seniors to be more isolated due to social distancing guidelines.
Benefits of social interaction for seniors:
- Relieves stress and improves moods
- Increases self-esteem
- Improves immune system functioning
- Reduced feelings of loneliness and isolation, in turn reduces depression and anxiety
- Helps to maintain cognitive functioning (1)
- Helps seniors to increase their overall activity which helps their mobility (2)
- Helps seniors to increase and maintain a sense of purpose
- Decreases the risk of self-harm and suicide (3)
Social Activities for Seniors
Please note: Always be sure to consult with your doctor or qualified medical provider before starting an exercise program or other new physical activity to make sure that it is right for you. Here is a list of ways that seniors can expand their horizons and be more social! Links to online resources have been provided for your convenience. Otherwise if the topic is worth exploring further and if no link has been provided, please do a search of that topic in Google.
Keep moving with SilverSneakers Exercise online or at the gym! Offered at no cost for those 65 and over through select Medicare plans. Join a Senior Center: Senior centers provide a variety of social activities and services that allow seniors to take part in activities they enjoy while making new friends. Take a Class: Many community centers offer classes geared toward seniors. Taking a class is an excellent way to meet new people and engage in activities that can stimulate both the mind and body. Participate in Social Media: Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter and Instagram can be great ways for seniors to connect with old friends and make new ones. Attend Senior Events: Many organizations host special events for seniors. These events often include activities like movies, game nights, group trips, and more. Join a Club: Clubs tailored to seniors can be great places to meet new people and engage in activities that you enjoy. Go on Group Outings: Group outings like trips to the zoo, museum, or park can be fun for seniors and give them the opportunity to meet new people. Attend Community Events: There are often events in the community that are tailored to seniors. Attending these events can be a great way to make new friends and experience new things. Take Up a Hobby: Taking up a new hobby can be a great way for seniors to meet new people and stay active. Join a Faith Community: Faith communities are often great places for seniors to connect with people who share similar values and beliefs. Play Games: Board games, card games, and video games can be a great way for seniors to connect with others while having fun. Attend Local Festivals: Local festivals often provide a great opportunity for seniors to experience new cultures, make new friends, and enjoy music and entertainment. Take a Trip: Going on a trip with friends or family is a great way for seniors to explore the world and make new memories. See: Flying with a Rollator Try Online Dating: Online dating can be a great way for seniors to meet new people and explore potential romantic relationships. Where can you find online dating for seniors? Online dating for seniors can typically be found on websites and apps like OurTime, SilverSingles, and SeniorMatch. These websites are designed to help seniors find potential partners and make connections. Try Group Fitness Classes: Group fitness classes are great for seniors who are looking for a fun way to stay active and meet new people. Join a Book Club: Book clubs provide a great way for seniors to discuss literature, meet new people, and exchange ideas. Where can you find book clubs? Book clubs can typically be found in local libraries, bookstores, and even online. Some organizations like the American Library Association also have local chapters that host book clubs. Take a Dance Class: Dance classes are a great way to stay active, have fun, and meet new people. Join a Sports Team: Joining a local sports team is a great way to stay active, make new friends, and have fun. Visit a Farmers Market: Farmers markets are a great way for seniors to find fresh produce and connect with their local community. Visit Local Museums: Visiting a local museum can be a great way for seniors to learn about history, meet new people, and explore their local area. Attend Concerts: Going to a concert can be a great way for seniors to experience live music and meet new people.
Go on Walks: Taking a walk in the neighborhood or a local park can be a great way to get some exercise while also meeting new people. Join a Support Group: Support groups can be a great way for seniors to share their experiences and receive support from those who have gone through similar situations. Where can you find support groups for seniors? Support groups for seniors can typically be found in local hospitals, community centers, and even online. Some organizations like the American Association of Retired Persons also have local chapters that host senior support groups. Visit a Senior Living Community: Senior living communities are a great way for seniors to meet new people and engage in activities they enjoy. Take a Cooking Class: Cooking classes are a great way for seniors to learn new recipes and make new friends. Take a Road Trip: Taking a road trip with friends or family is a great way for seniors to explore new places and spend quality time together. Join an Investment Club: Investment clubs are a great way for seniors to learn more about investing and meet new people. Where can you find Investment clubs? Investment clubs can typically be found in local financial institutions, community centers, and even online. Some organizations like the National Association of Investors Corporation also have local chapters that host investment clubs.
Volunteer Opportunities for Seniors

- K9s for Warriors
- Semper Fi & America’s Fund
- Taps
- Midwest Shelter For Homeless Veterans
- Hope For The Warriors


References
- Shirley Leanos, Esra Kürüm, Carla M Strickland-Hughes, Annie S Ditta, Gianhu Nguyen, Miranda Felix, Hara Yum, George W Rebok, Rachel Wu. The Impact of Learning Multiple Real-World Skills on Cognitive Abilities and Functional Independence in Healthy Older Adults. The Journals of Gerontology: Series B, 2019; DOI: 10.1093/geronb/gbz084 [online]. Accessed January 26, 2023.
- Harvard Health Publishing (Harvard Medical School). Broader social interaction keeps older adults more active [online]. Accessed January 24, 2023.
- National Library of Medicine. Strategies to Promote Social Connections Among Older Adults During “Social Distancing” Restrictions [online]. Accessed January 22, 2023.
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