Growing older can be isolating, especially if you’re dealing with mobility challenges or pre-existing conditions that limit your ability to go out. However, maintaining an active social life is important—with scientific studies showing that it can lift one’s mood and improve one’s memory, and possibly live longer, among other benefits. The senior living guide below offers tips for finding companionship.

How to Make New Friends as an Older Adult

1. Get Involved in the Community

People of every age love to contribute to their community. It can be through church, volunteer organizations, or civic groups. Get involved. You’ll meet people of every age that you can learn and laugh with. You may even serve a mentor role to younger members. These groups often have regular meetings and ongoing events, so you’ll always have something to look forward to.

2. Try Groups & Classes

If you love to read, join a book club. Exercise is beneficial for senior living, so consider a yoga or exercise class. You can explore new hobbies, such as taking music lessons or trying a cooking class, and even continue your education by enrolling in CTE programs. There, you’ll meet like-minded individuals and may also cultivate new passions.

3. Consider a Life Care Community

If being isolated in your current home is limiting your social life, consider moving to a senior living community. Life Plan Communites also known as CCRC’s have extensive lifestyle programs that bring residents together, plus offer the continuum of care of your health needs change. You’ll find you quickly make friends and have all the health assistance you need. Moving will also free up a lot of your time spent on house and yard maintenance so you can spend more happy afternoons with friends and loved ones.

If you’re exploring senior living options in the Austin, TX, area, contact Longhorn Village. This premier Life Care community is part of the University of Texas health network and provides a unique brand of retirement living and comprehensive medical care to residents in the Health Center, offering Assisted Living, Skilled Nursing, and Memeory Care. They’re dedicated to fostering an active community and offer all the assistance needed to enjoy your golden years. Call (512) 266-5600 to schedule a tour and visit their website to learn more about their accommodations. You can connect on Facebook for news and updates.