Expanding Your Social Circle as a Senior Citizen…..

Staying social as a Senior Citizen can be a challenge as their social circles start become smaller. Meeting new people can greatly enrich the lives of the elderly. Read more about ways to for older Americans to connect.

Having a social life is essential for everyone and specially for retired adults. Keeping our minds and bodies active is part of a healthy lifestyle. But sometimes, as seniors citizens, is hard to find the right places to socialize with people close to our age. Participating in programs and clubs in your local Senior Center can be a very good way to do that.

Senior Centers are, basically, Community Centers where older adults can congregate to fulfill many of their social, physical, emotional and intellectual needs. In the United States, Senior Centers are usually locally or state funded, though some might be part of federal programs.

Recognized by the Older Americans Act (OAA) as a community focal point, senior centers have become one of the most widely used services among America’s older adults. Today, nearly 11,000 senior centers serve 1 million older adults aged 50+ every day. Approximately 70% of senior center participants are women. This data was compiled before the Covid pandemic.

It’s a great opportunity to connect with others who are around the same age while learning something new or just playing the good old bingo with some friends. Programs vary significantly, but most offer a variety of options to appeal to a larger audience. For the more independent to quilting and bridge classes, there’s always something for everyone. If you have a family member or home care service agency, caregivers are always welcomed in those centers.

Each location will offer programs and events that locals or members want to see available. Many senior centers are sponsored by governments, local community programs, specialized associations, and third-party organizations. Check your local Senior Center for programs and events, or just ask your home health caregiver to help out with that.