It’s never too late to make new friends
Even if you feel alone in your community, there are always opportunities for you to meet like-minded people.
Golden years
Fans of reality TV will be familiar with The Bachelor – a show where a contestant dates a series of eligible singles before settling on “the one”.
It has been around for many years in many different forms, but now there’s a new twist. In The Golden Bachelor, which will debut in the US this year, the person looking for love is a senior citizen.
“After more than 20 years of fostering young love on The Bachelor, The Bachelorette, and Bachelor in Paradise, The Golden Bachelor showcases a whole new kind of love story — one for the golden years,” the show’s producers say.
“On this all-new unscripted series, one hopeless romantic is given a second chance at love in the search for a partner with whom to share the sunset years of life.”
There is no word of when or whether the concept will come to Australia.
An inevitable consequence of getting older is that our social circles start to shrink.
Many seniors, especially those who’ve lost long-time partners and friends, feel lonely but don’t know where to look for new companionship.
The good news is that, in most communities, there are ways to meet people – even that special someone, if that’s your goal.
If you are looking to widen your social circle, here are a few suggestions:
Check out senior clubs or organisations in your area that cater to specific interests or hobbies. These groups often hold regular meetings, outings, and social events. Of course, National Seniors Australia has a network of branches that will welcome you with open arms. Click here to learn more and find the nearest branch to you.
Enrol in a class or workshop. It could be anything from painting and cooking to gardening or computer skills. These environments provide an opportunity to meet like-minded individuals who share similar interests.
Find volunteer opportunities within your community. Not only will you contribute to a worthy cause, but you will also meet fellow volunteers who are passionate about the same issues.
Join online forums or social media groups dedicated to senior citizens. These platforms provide a virtual space to connect, share experiences, and meet new people from the comfort of your home. But be careful about what you share over the internet, because not everybody is who they say they are, and some people lurk online with bad intentions.
Many colleges and universities offer courses or workshops specifically designed for older adults. Enrolling in these classes not only provides opportunities for learning but also for meeting fellow students.
If you have a religious or spiritual affiliation, taking part in activities at your local place of worship can provide opportunities for meeting people who share your beliefs.
Participate in exercise classes, yoga sessions, or group walks. Fitness activities not only promote health but also create opportunities to connect with others.
Keep an eye out for cultural events, such as art exhibitions, music concerts, or theatre performances in your community. These events attract a diverse range of people and offer a chance to mingle.
Consider joining a book club or discussion group. These gatherings provide an excellent setting to meet people with similar literary or intellectual interests.
Remember, building new connections takes time and effort, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t instantly find your ideal social circle.
Be open to new experiences, but also remember to take sensible precautions, such as not sharing too many details about yourself and where you live with strangers. If you remain open-minded and take your time, you should enjoy the journey of meeting new people along the way.
