Humans are inherently social creatures, so it’s not surprising that as we age and lose friends or family for one reason or another, it really takes a toll on us. In fact, according to the World Health Organisation, one in three older individuals experiences feelings of loneliness.
And while this may be a confronting statistic, you may be wondering how you can help prevent your loved one from being that one in three, and fortunately for you, there are various ways you can help your elderly loved one increase their socialisation. Throughout this blog, we’ll explore these, alongside the importance of building and maintaining social connections in your golden years.
Why Is It Important for Seniors to Be Social?
As people get older, it’s natural for social circles to change. Friends might move away, family members get busier, and health issues can sometimes make it harder to get out and about. But staying socially connected is more than just a nice extra; social interaction is important for elderly individuals because it plays a vital role in their overall well-being, happiness, and quality of life. Here’s why it matters so much:
Reduces Feelings of Loneliness and Isolation
Let’s face it, everyone yearns for a sense of belonging. And for older adults, especially those who live alone or have lost close companions, loneliness can creep in quickly. Social connection, even in small doses, helps lift that weight. A friendly chat, a shared laugh, or just knowing someone is checking in can make all the difference.
Provides Cognitive Stimulation
Staying social isn’t just good for the heart, it’s great for the brain too. Conversations, shared stories, laughs, and even friendly debates keep the mind active and engaged. It encourages older adults to think, remember, and respond, which helps keep cognitive skills sharper for longer. It’s like exercise for the brain!
Promotes Good Physical Health
You might not think a lunch date or community event counts as exercise, but for many seniors, it is. Social activities often involve getting out of the house, walking, moving around, or even dancing. That movement adds up, and it encourages healthier habits overall. Plus, people who stay socially active are often more motivated to look after themselves; they’ve got somewhere to be, someone to see, and a reason to stay well.
Provides Emotional Support & a Reduction in Anxiety
Life can be unpredictable, and having people to talk to makes the tough days a little easier. For older adults, social connections offer emotional support, someone to laugh with, vent to, or lean on when times get tough. It helps reduce feelings of anxiety and stress and reminds them they’re not facing challenges alone.
Why Do Older Adults Experience Feelings of Loneliness and Isolation?
As people age, it’s common for their social circles and daily routines to change, sometimes in ways that can leave them feeling disconnected. There are several reasons why older adults might experience loneliness and isolation more than younger generations, including:
- Loss of loved ones (friends & family), they previously sought connection from which results in a smaller social network.
- Chronic health issues or mobility challenges can make it difficult for older adults to get out and about.
- Mental health challenges, such as depression or anxiety, can reduce motivation to socialise.
- Retirement. Transitioning from work to retirement can lead to a loss of social contacts and daily interactions that once provided connection, routine, and a sense of belonging.
- Post-pandemic effect. The pandemic intensified loneliness for many older Australians, especially those living alone due to prolonged lockdowns and subsequent separation from loved ones and limits on social activities. Several years on, many remain cautious about gatherings, making it harder to rebuild social connections and routines.
Top Tips for Encouraging Socialisation in Seniors
Staying socially connected is just as important in our later years as it is at any other stage of life; if anything, it’s more important, particularly because of the factors above that cause and even exacerbate loneliness as we age. And we get it, we know it can be hard to encourage your loved one to participate in social activities, especially if they’re feeling a little shy, stuck in routine, or just not sure where to start.
That’s why we’ve put together a few gentle, practical tips to help you and your loved one open those doors to connection and community again.
Help Them Adopt a Pet
Adopting a pet can be a wonderful way to ease feelings of loneliness and encourage socialisation in older adults. Pets provide constant companionship, a sense of purpose, and a daily routine, all of which can help improve emotional well-being. On top of that, having a pet often encourages social interaction. Whether it’s chatting with neighbours during a dog walk, visiting the local vet, or joining a pet-friendly community group, pets naturally open up opportunities for casual, meaningful social connections.
Enquire About Local Senior Community Groups
You may find yourself wondering where seniors actually meet other seniors. Well, one of the main ways older adults connect, make new friends, and stay socially active is through local senior community groups. These groups often offer regular meetups, activities, and outings designed specifically for older adults, making them a great way to rebuild social connections and feel part of a community again.
For example, near The Village Manly, there is a wonderful senior social group aptly named Wynnym 60 and Better. Running everything from craft-focused activities to BBQ lunches, morning teas, and group trips, it’s a great way for older locals to meet new people, stay active, and have a laugh together.
Encourage Them to Consider Joining a Gym or Group Fitness Classes
Regardless of fitness level, the benefits of joining a gym or social sports group for seniors are tenfold (at the doctor’s approval, of course). Moving your body in any way, shape, or form has a significant influence on not only our physical health, but our mental health as well. Regular exercise strengthens your muscles and joints, improves balance, and helps enhance overall independence and self-confidence. Regular exercise also encourages the release of feel-good endorphins that help to lift mood and ease feelings of stress and anxiety.
One of the best things about group fitness classes is that they offer so much more than just exercise. They provide a welcoming place for seniors to socialise, get out of the house, and meet new people in a relaxed, friendly environment. Sometimes it’s not even about the workout, it’s about the company. Many seniors find joy in activities like tai chi, yoga, swimming, or group walking clubs (many of which are available at The Village Retirement Group), which are gentle on the body yet great for both fitness and social connection.
Visit Often or Arrange Regular Check-Ins
Imagine how a simple “How are you?” can bring a smile to someone’s face, especially when it comes with a warm, genuine interest in hearing the answer. For seniors, your visits or even just regular calls can brighten their day and ease feelings of loneliness and isolation. It’s not just about checking if they’re alright; it’s about showing them they’re loved, valued, and never too far from our thoughts. Whether it’s a weekly coffee date or a call to share a recent funny story, these small gestures of connection mean more to them than you know.
Introduce Them to the Online World
The world of technology might seem a bit overwhelming for them at first, but it can be an amazing way for seniors to stay connected with family and friends, especially when getting out isn’t as easy as it used to be, or if family members have moved further away. Helping them become comfortable with online messaging, texting, video calls, and social media can open up a whole new world, enabling them to stay engaged and feel connected with their friends and family. Plus, learning something new together can be a fantastic bonding experience and a way to keep those neurons firing.
Encourage Hobbies (Arts, Crafts, or Interest-Based Groups)
Alongside keeping their hands and minds busy, encouraging seniors to join clubs or participate in interest-based classes provides an excellent way to increase socialisation. Whether it’s a local gardening club, knitting circle, or even a book club, these activities provide older adults with an opportunity to spend time with people who share similar interests. These kinds of settings naturally spark conversations and the formation of friendships, making it easier for seniors to feel more engaged and part of a community.
Encourage Them to Consider Moving into a Retirement Village
It may seem like a big step, but moving into a retirement village could be a game-changer for embracing a fuller, more engaging lifestyle. Retirement villages aren’t just places to live, they’re lively communities designed to support active, social lifestyles. Making the move can open the door to a calendar of regular social events and group activities. Not to mention, it’s a great way for seniors to meet other seniors and to connect with those who share similar life experiences and understand what this stage of life is all about.
How The Village Retirement Group Can Help
At The Village, the mental and physical wellbeing of our residents are our number one priority, which is why we provide them with plenty of opportunities to socialise, including fitness classes like tai chi, yoga, and lawn bowls as well as a bunch of different hobby groups to suit different interests – think craft clubs, choir, book club, trivia, and so much more.
If you’d like to know more about how you can help your loved one if they are experiencing elderly loneliness, please check out our blog, Easing Elderly Loneliness: Tips to Support Your Parents. Otherwise, if you have any questions about life at The Village Retirement Group, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’ll happily answer any questions you may have.
