It’s easy to forget about being a “social butterfly” as you get older. Friends and family move away as we age, and health issues can make it difficult to see old friends and make new ones.

Getting older does not imply giving up on meeting new people and being social – quite the contrary! There are more opportunities than ever for seniors to meet new people, make new friends, and get involved in their community. The benefits of solid social bonds on health cannot be overstated. Socially connected older adults report better mental and physical health and a more positive outlook on life.

Are you looking for inspiration to make new friends? Here are eight ways you can try out to make new friends as a senior.

Participate in a Community Service

Giving back can be a rewarding and empowering way for senior citizens to meet new people. There are several ways for seniors to volunteer in their communities, including access to services for older adults specifically. Hospitals, theaters, community centers, and schools need volunteers. You can quickly find opportunities that match your skills and interests with the help of a caregiver or companion.

Visit a Senior or Community Center

This tip is slightly different from the previous tip. Instead of volunteering, you can join a local community or senior center. It’s an excellent way for seniors to meet new people, get involved in their community, and make new friends. Many local senior and community centers host events for seniors, such as film screenings, fitness classes, and day trips.

Participate in a Local Activity Group

Whether you enjoy gardening, classic movies, road trips, or anything in between, there is a local group for you. There are groups designed for senior citizens seeking friendship and community. Across the country, you’ll find activity groups based on shared interests, many of which are specifically for older adults looking for friendship and community.

As you begin your search for groups near you, community centers, churches, and senior centers can be invaluable resources. Use Facebook Groups, Meetup.com, or any other groups or apps to connect online.

Join an Exercise Class

Joining an exercise class or being part of a fitness group can be an excellent way for older adults to stay active and socialize. Explore local options that fit your interests, health goals, and fitness background. Yoga, walking clubs, water aerobics, and senior-friendly dance classes are all possible options.

Enroll in a Continuing Education Class

It’s never too late to learn! Studies show that older adults who keep challenging themselves and learning new things have better brain health. Enrolling in a part-time class can help senior citizens socialize and make new friends. Examine local continuing education options, such as community college courses on interesting academic topics. As a senior citizen, you can also enroll in cooking, art, or fitness classes. Many schools allow seniors to take courses for free or at a reduced rate.

Host a Potluck or Game Night

The fear involved in reaching out and inviting people in is often one of the biggest obstacles for seniors. It’s scary to meet new people or even invite friends over for a night.

Organize a game night or a potluck dinner party to relieve the pressure. This way, when a senior invites people over, everyone knows what they are responsible for, easing the pressure of being a good host. Helping elderly guests, managing invitations, cleaning, cooking, or preparing the home — family caregivers and senior companions can handle all these tasks.

Join a Faith-based Community

Historically, churches have served as gathering places and communal hubs. Religious organizations now provide many older persons with social and spiritual support. Aside from social interaction, faith-based organizations can inspire older persons to be more active. Classes, community events, and outreach and service activities sponsored by religious groups are handy methods for seniors to get involved, establish a purpose, and meet new people.

Meet Your Neighbors

Last but not least, check around your neighborhood area. Do you even know who your next-door neighbors are? Do you have any long-lost friends around your area you’d like to reconnect with? Invite your existing friends to dinner and encourage them to bring guests you’ve never met before.

Finding Friends After 60

As a senior, it can be challenging to make new friends. These are eight ways you can try to put yourself out there in order to develop strong relationships with others.

Just remember that making new friends as a senior can take time, but it is well worth the effort. Solid friends can enrich your life by providing you with supportive, loving, and kind people who share your values.