What does your social calendar say about you? Get out your calendar and jot down all of the invitations you have received, classes you are taking, and everything else you plan to do this month. Don’t panic if you aren’t doing something every single day, but there should be a fair smattering of activities every week.
It has been well documented that spending too much time alone is linked to cognitive decline, which means it is an issue for seniors to think about. Not only that but it is documented that loneliness can make you sick, interfere with your sleep, raise your blood pressure and shorten your life span.
Social connections are difficult for those with shy retiring personalities, but these are exactly the people who need to learn how to reach out:
- Smile more, introduce yourself to others and initiate conversations. This is difficult in a world where people pass you by without even seeing you are there; a simple “hello” is a good way to start.
- Adopt a puppy; the best social ground breaker in the world.
- Look for opportunities to get involved with other people. Join a book club if you like to read or find a group to walk or hike with if you enjoy the out of doors.
- Reconnect with people you know or have known in the past. Get a computer. Learn how to e-mail and Skype with long distance family and friends.
- Ask others for advice or support; don’t be afraid to share your feelings.
- Help others by volunteering.
Antidotes for loneliness can be found everywhere. Start in your own neighborhood (get to know your neighbors), your local senior center (provides services, opportunities for socializing, classes and group activities), and in your own community (volunteer and take an interest in local government). There are a lot of really nice people out there; get to know some of them.