As you get older, it’s not uncommon for your social circle to get smaller. Your adult children move away or start families of their own, friends may pass away or relocate, and your spouse may have experienced a health decline.
So, what do you do when isolation and loneliness are starting to impact your day-to-day life? You make changes that give you a fresh start and a more positive outlook on the future. Finding ways to deal with loneliness as you age can be easier than you might realize. It’s all about being open to change and willing to try new things.
Getting older is never easy, but it is the perfect time to focus a little more on yourself, your goals, and what makes you happy. By making a few small changes to your lifestyle, not only can you combat loneliness before it becomes an issue, but you can also start to thrive in a way that breathes new life into your next chapter of life.
Believe it or not, focusing on your health and wellbeing is one of the best ways to combat loneliness. Exercise helps boost your mood and improve your health while also getting you out of the house and interacting with people in a way you never have before. Consider joining a local recreation center, senior fitness class, or walking club.
When you’re feeling lonely, it’s easy to isolate yourself in the four walls of your home or apartment. Instead, get outside and explore! Whether you go to a local park and walk around, go to a nearby shopping center to window shop, or visit a local coffee shop, you’ll be surprised how much more connected you’ll feel to the world around you.
Many people like to explore their creative side as they get older. From learning to paint or draw to taking up an instrument, challenging yourself mentally and creatively is something that can immediately boost your mood. When you feel more optimistic and excited about the prospect of each day, you’ll feel less lonely and isolated.
Whether you have a religion you’ve been a part of your entire life or are just starting out on your faith journey, exploring this part of yourself will help you find more meaning and purpose each day. Plus, once you find a church or institution you enjoy, you’ll meet like-minded individuals who can help you stay connected and learn more about yourself and your faith.
When older adults have a deep sense of purpose in their lives, they are less likely to feel lonely or isolated. Consider finding a charity, church or school that provides volunteer opportunities. Using your talents and efforts to help others is a great way to help you enjoy life and find meaning in each day. You could also meet new people during your volunteer work.
Loneliness and depression are common issues for older adults and can wreak havoc on your mental and emotional wellbeing. Don’t let life become a burden as you age. Instead, find ways to make your life more meaningful in your retirement years, and you’ll start reaping the benefits right away.
Upside is proud to take everything you thought you knew about senior living and turn it on its head. Since our inception, we’ve provided active older adults with dynamic living options that offer maintenance-free, active lifestyles in intergenerational communities.
Upside offers dynamic living options all across the United States. We offer one-, two-, and three-bedroom units that let older adults and retirees downsize to their comfort level while staying front and center for all the hustle and bustle of city life.
Learn more about our unique approach to senior living and start living the retirement life you’ve only dreamed of having. Contact us today to speak with an Upside advisor.
Upside Corporate Headquarters
6365 NW 6TH Way, Suite 200
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
