As we journey through life, one of the most cherished – and sometimes underrated – aspects is the connections we make along the way. However, the ability for social engagement and community support is the more relevant point for companionship and central to well-being in the older adult. Senior centers, volunteer opportunities and programs designed to foster social interaction can play an essential role in the relief of loneliness and leads to enhanced quality of life for senior citizens.
Senior Centers: A hub of activity and companionship. The very idea of a senior centre might evoke a place where the halls are filled with the sounds of laughter, a card game cements lifelong friends, and adventure is offered anew every day. That’s the idea with senior centers: lively settings that seek to cater to the varied interests and requirements of the aging. From fitness classes and art workshops to educational seminars, shared meals and group outings, there is everything at senior centers. On the other hand, whether you are a classically trained dancer or a beginner painter, there is a place for you to join in many activities. Larger centres will often have more than one senior centre so the opportunity exists to check out multiple centres and find a good fit.
Volunteer Opportunities: Giving back and finding purpose. Volunteering brings a special kind of fulfillment from lending a helping hand to others. Volunteering brings special kinds of fulfillment to older adults by allowing them to become engaged in a variety of activities that maintain contact with members of their community. From mentoring youth to providing meals at local shelters, there is always something to do. For retirees, the bonus is being able to use all of their skills and apply them to a needy organization. The opportunity to try out something that was always on the ‘bucket list’ but there wasn’t time for exists as well.
Programs Fostering Social Interaction: Connecting hearts and minds. Anything and everything under the sun is brought together and digitized in today’s context. From book clubs to discussion groups, scores of programs are aimed at the older adult gathering in cyberspace. Such platforms give people the ability to socialize in a secure environment from any location. Regardless of ability or weather, the opportunity to participate exists.
Life Long Learners: Finding new skills and building on existing skills. For those interested in topics they may not have had time to delve into before, there are scads of online learning opportunities. Some are free (check out Harvard, University of Toronto, Stanford and The Open University) while others have a fee attached for micro credentials or perhaps you want to get a degree. Any subject area that is of interest to you should be available at one of several institutions.
Staying engaged with life and connected with other like-minded people is important to keep our minds engaged and our hearts warm.
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