25 Ways For Retirees To Stay Social
These days, we know mental health is just as important as eating right and exercising. But still, nearly one-fourth of adults over the age of 65 are considered to be socially isolated. Evidence suggests that this isolation and subsequent feelings of loneliness are associated with an increased risk of developing dementia, heart disease, and other life-threatening conditions.
So, how can seniors who are experiencing isolation counter these risks? Answer: Socialization.
Though the answer is simple, it can be easier said than done, especially if you have preexisting conditions that limit your ability to get out of the house. Nevertheless, experts agree that socializing is good for your mind and body. In addition to fending off loneliness, socializing helps refine your memory and cognitive skills. It increases your sense of well-being and makes for happier days.
Socializing is good for your mind and body.
Socialization is the way to combat feelings of loneliness or loss of self-worth. But, how do you do it when you’re over 55? Well, there’s more than one way…
1. Get on social media.
Sites like Facebook can keep you connected with family and friends who live far away. You can use these platforms to share pictures, write notes, and chat. You can find old friends or even new friends. Join groups to meet others with the same interests or hobbies. Follow community pages to stay up-to-date on the latest local info.
Other social media sites you can join:
- Instagram: Instagram is a popular photo-sharing site. Though the demographic skews slightly younger, you can still find plenty of potential friends on the websites. Of course, it’s also an easy way to keep up with your grandkids!
- TikTok: Who says TikTok is just for young folks? Anyone can join TikTok and enjoy a wide range of videos on just about every subject. Plus, your grandkids will probably think you’re pretty cool if you make an account on the platform.
- Reddit: If you’re an introvert who craves connection but doesn’t want your face plastered all over the internet, enter Reddit. You can be anonymous on Reddit and join subreddits related to pop culture, news, animals, and everything in between. It’s a great place to connect with others and share your thoughts on a wide array of subjects.
- YouTube: YouTube is also a fun, vibrant community where you can comment, connect with others, and even build your own community of fans. You aren’t too old to start a YouTube channel! So, if you’d like to share recipes or life advice or a vlog about your daily adventures, consider joining YouTube! Your voice is needed!
- Pinterest: While not as social as some other platforms, Pinterest is a great place to get your pretty picture fix and follow people who create beautiful boards and collages related to your interests.
2. Volunteer.
Want to have fun, make new friends, and give to a cause that’s close to your heart? Then try volunteering! Whether you want to spend a few hours at your local animal shelter or serve food at a soup kitchen, you can give back to your community and help the less fortunate. Here are some great organizations to get involved with:
Also, check out these lists of unique ways to volunteer:
- 9 Best Places to Volunteer with Your Grandchildren
- 26 Impactful Volunteer Organizations for Seniors Who Want to Change the World
- How To Volunteer With Hospice
- Best Volunteer Vacations for Retirees in 2025
- How to Locate Interesting Volunteer Opportunities in Your Area
3. Join a club.
Like to work with your hands? Do you enjoy reading? Maybe gardening? Then check out your local community center or library for special interest clubs to join! Also, see if any of your friends have book clubs. If not, start one! You might also consider joining a local chapter of a national club like:
4. Get a part-time job.
Just because you’re retired, doesn’t mean you don’t have something to offer the workforce. You have a life full of experience and skills! A part-time job can be fun, get you out of the house, and provide opportunities to make new friends while bringing in a little extra cash.
Some part-time jobs that might be perfect for you include:
- Sales associate
- Babysitter
- Florist
- Dogwalker
- Call center representative
- Receptionist
5. Adopt a pet.
Pets can add support and a sense of purpose to anyone’s life. Your pet can be your best friend and provide opportunities to meet others through walking, obedience classes, or visiting places like dog parks. If you’re not sure where to start, here’s a great resource that helps seniors adopt animals: Pets For The Elderly
6. Take an exercise class.
Exercise classes give you the opportunity to meet new people, get together with friends, and stay healthy. Check out the Silver Sneakers website for senior-specific programs near you!
7. Update to a smartphone.
We get it – your house phone works just fine. But we promise, once you switch to a smartphone, you won’t ever want to go back! With a smartphone, you can make calls, learn how to text, and keep in touch with social apps! And, by the way, if you’re a member of AMAC, there are some pretty great discount plans you can take advantage of!
8. Take a class.
You’re never too old to learn something new! Learning a new skill can help keep your mind sharp. Nowadays, many colleges offer online and in-person classes for aging adults! Some are tuition-free, and some are discounted. If you’re interested in learning something new and meeting others, then start here!
9. Get involved with your church.
Churches don’t just provide a place to worship. They also foster community and age-specific group programs, clubs, and other volunteer opportunities. If you’re not sure where to start, simply walk through your church’s front door and ask!
10. Babysit.
Okay, this may not be for the faint of heart, but it’s surely for the young at heart! As long as your health is in good standing, babysitting can be a great change of pace and will help you stay active and social. There is plenty you can teach a younger generation, and you may be surprised what they teach you!
11. Shop with a neighbor or friend.
Grocery shopping can often be a mundane task. Liven it up by taking someone with you! Walking up and down the aisles won’t be quite as boring when you have a buddy to chat with. And, bonus, you’ll get help loading and unloading your car!
12. If you’re single, then get involved with a singles group!
Your local community center, church, or even a coffee shop may host single groups. These are basically clubs that organize get-togethers or outings for those who may not have a significant other or who have been widowed. If you fall into those categories and may be feeling a little shy about “getting out there,” a singles group might be perfect for you!
13. Consider moving to an active adult community.
Retirement communities are a great place to connect and stay connected with others who are around your age and love doing the same things. An active adult retirement community usually features monthly planned activities and outings. Many offer on-site clubhouses and sports clubs.
14. Travel.
Whether you’re traveling alone or with a spouse, going to new places is an easy way to try different things and meet some people along the way. If you’re adventurous, try out an agency like Elder Treks or Walking The World. If you’re not sure where to go, check out your local travel agencies for help!
15. Become a seasonal camper.
Campgrounds and RV parks are full of sun, family fun, and relaxation. And, you don’t always have to travel far to be a camper! Many campgrounds will rent seasonal lots to those with trailers. Just park your place, and come and go as you please for the whole summer.
16. Audit a class.
Maybe you’re not quite ready for all that going “back to school” offers. Maybe you’re just not ready for the commitment. Well, many colleges will allow seniors to audit classes as long as there is space available! This can allow you the opportunity to try something new without having to pay, and likely connect with some younger students at the same time.
17. Join a MeetUp.
MeetUp is an online community where people who share the same interests organize events online and in person. It’s free to create an account. And, yes, there are groups for seniors!
18. Go to a movie during the day.
A movie theater might not sound like a place to be social. After all, you sit silently in the dark for about two hours. However, consider this: theaters have concession stands, lounges, and today, some even have bars. Whether you go alone or with a partner, at the very least, you won’t be bored!
19. Learn to play an instrument.
Never too old to learn? Yep, still true. Visit a local music store and pick out something you’ve always wanted to try. Then, sign up for a class!
20. Join up with a community garden.
Many communities have gardens that local residents build and maintain together. Check local community centers and their websites for information on how to get involved!
21. Go to the park.
Take a walk down the street. Grab a cup of coffee. Then, continue that walk right through the local park. If you meet anyone along the way, great. If you don’t, breathe in the fresh air and enjoy your exercise. Either way, it’s going to be a good experience for your health!
22. Go to an adult day service.
Programs are designed to provide supervised care and promote quality of life for both participants and their families. At an adult day service, you’ll be given plenty of opportunities to socialize and engage in different activities or even outings. Many facilities even provide transportation to and from!
23. Reconnect with old friends.
Sometimes, you don’t have to look for new friends. You can just rekindle a connection with an old one! Thanks to sites like Instagram and Facebook, it’s easier than ever to track down people you’ve lost touch with. If there’s a friend who’s flitted in and out of your head over the years, try to find them on social media. Send them a message to let them know you’re thinking of them and try to reconnect. Even if it doesn’t blossom into the friendship it once was, it’s still nice to catch up and reminisce about the good old days.
24. Host game nights.
Calling all board game fans. Game nights can be a great way to stay connected and create lasting memories with your friends and family. Whether you’re a diehard D&D dungeon master or a casual board game fan, you can always host a regular game night. Invite your friends and family, and encourage them to invite their friends, too. Who knows? You might meet some new lifelong pals and extend your social circle even further!
25. Play video games!
Not into board games? No problem! You can still stay social and meet new friends, thanks to video games. Even single-player games, like The Sims, can become social if you join an online fan community on Reddit, Discord, or Facebook. Video games are a fun way to connect with your current friends and meet some new ones. Plus, they’re fun!
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Originally published May 22, 2025
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