As a child making new friends was easy, as you get older things get more complicated. It’s not as easy as being on the school playground surrounded by fun-loving kids with endless imaginations and open hearts.
Making friends became of sharing common interests and strong bonds were formed through the simple question of, “Do you want to be my friend?”.
Making Friends at 60
As adults we’re shaped by our life experiences that include happiness and hardships. This can affect our ability to develop meaningful relationships.
Some older adults are overcome with anxiety in social situations and are reluctant to approach new people for fear of being rejected. Others have a burning interest in making new friends and developing relationships, but may be unsure where and how to meet new people.
Tips on how to make friends at 60:
1. Show Confidence
Confidence is key in most situations, and meeting new people is no different. Kids have an inherent confidence that allows them to wander up to a complete stranger and ask to be friends, without fear or hesitation.
As adults, many of us lose that sense of confidence and inhibition.
In other words, it is up to you. When you accept that you are in control and you have the power to influence outcomes, such as making new friends, you develop a sense of confidence in yourself and what you ‘have to offer’ others.
Envisioning yourself approaching someone new and introducing yourself, or trying out a new activity or class to meet people will help you feel confident when you’re ready to go for it.
2. Follow Your Own Hobbies and Interests
By pursuing activities and hobbies that you already enjoy, you are sure to meet people with similar interests.
3. Be Thoughtful
After hanging out with your new friend a few times, make an effort to be extra thoughtful. If you know they love a certain baked good, item, or meal, go the extra mile and bring it to them or take them out.
4. Find Common Ground
A great start to any friendship is finding common ground. When meeting new people, try to find interests you share, and then plan on engaging in those hobbies together once a relationship has been established.
5. Make the First Move
Even though it might feel nerve wracking to say something first, it’s a great way to break the ice. Remember other seniors may be interested in making friends as well, so try not to let nerves get in your way. You might be pleasantly surprised by how friendly other seniors can be, and by how quickly you get used to initiating conversations.
6. Be a Regular
Whether you go to classes, walk the same path, or eat at the same restaurants, be a regular. Get to know the instructors, staff members, or servers so you become a household name. Doing so will attract attention your way and possibly spark a friendship with other seniors who enjoy patronizing the same place.
Entrust of DeSoto: A Resident-centric Memory Care Community in Dallas, Texas
Entrust of DeSoto is a memory care community that puts resident well-being at the center of everything we do. We know that each person is unique. That’s why we offer a wide range of services and lifestyle options to nourish the body and create community.
We understand the importance of home cooked meals and nutrition for seniors and this attitude is reflected in our dining experience. If you or a loved one live near Dallas, Texas and need assisted living, contact Entrust of DeSoto today to learn about our 24-hour care and find out how we can help.
