Getting older can be difficult. On the one hand, you are looking forward to retirement and the freedom that this can bring. On the other hand, with the younger people around you moving on to a life of their own, loneliness can set in. Without a job to go to, your Golden Years can be a bit anticlimactic if you allow it to be. The good news is that it does not have to be that way. There are many things that you can do to become more social and battle that loneliness that can creep in during your golden years. Here are four tips designed to help you do just that.
Volunteer Around the Community
There are many organizations around you that are in need of your help. Instead of just staying in the house, get out and do something productive. When you do this, you will also meet new friends who you can begin to associate with. You will also feel good about your volunteer work at the same time.
Move to A Community of Active Adults
Staying in your old neighborhood might not be the best thing for you during your golden years. You want to be around people your own age who have similar interests. Look for adult community homes in your area to find a place that you love and can feel comfortable in. When you are surrounded by neighbors who are also living through their golden years, you will feel much more connected.
Stay Closer to Family
If at all possible, try to live close to family. This gives them the independence they need to live their own lives, while also putting them close enough to visit with regularity. This will certainly go a long way towards combating loneliness. You can also be close by to help your family members when they are in a time of need.
Get a Roommate
Most of the time when people think of roommates they think of college students. However, working adults in big cities are often in the need of roommates. If you are widowed and lonely, you may benefit from having a roommate nearby. If you have a mother in law apartment or extra rooms you may want to rent them to other widowers in your church or community. Moving in with friends is a way that you can socialize while you each maintain your own private space. If you have grand-kids in college they may benefit from renting out the basement, and you may benefit from some extra cash and company.
Have Video Call Capability
Embrace technology. You can now call friends and family members anywhere in the world and see them right through your very own smartphone. If you do not already know how to use this technology, learn. Get a device that you are comfortable using and you will feel just as connected to your family living across the country as if they lived across the street.
These are four great tips designed to help you feel and stay more connected as you enter your golden years. There is no reason why you cannot remain active during this new stage in your life. Get out there enjoy life and combat that loneliness that would creep in otherwise. You deserve it!
