One of the more unfortunate side effects of getting older is that our friendship circle gets smaller. Once we’ve retired it becomes hard to keep in touch with workmates, friends can pass away or become too unwell to socialize, and our own declining mobility can make it harder to get out and about. 

All of this can also make it hard to make new friends, and let’s face it, if you’ve had the same circle of friends for a long time, the idea of putting yourself out there and meeting new people can be tough. But it’s worth it. There are many benefits to making friends in later life. Here’s a look at some of them. 

Friends Decrease the Risks of Cognitive Decline

Being around people is one of the most effective ways to keep your brain sharp and your memory good. Having friends means that you have people to talk to and that you’ll exercise your brain by talking about a range of different topics.

Friends and social connections also mean that you are more likely to try new things and have new experiences, as well as get some exercise, instead of just staying at home feeling isolated. Anything new, whether it’s going to a new place or trying a new restaurant gives your mind something to think about, which is great for your brain health.

New Friends Can Boost Your Mental Health

Getting older can be lonely, scary, and upsetting. Our senior years come with lots of changes that we have to adjust to, and life can be far harder than it was when we were younger. Many people suffer from depression and anxiety as they get older. 

Avoiding depression and loneliness is one of the most common reasons that people decide to move into Bridgewater assisted living neighborhoods, and one of the ways that this move helps the most is by giving seniors a new community with plenty of opportunities to make friends and socialize. 

Friends prevent depression and other mental health issues by giving us people to talk to and make plans with. Having friends means that you worry less, you have more fun, and you have things to look forward to.

Socializing Increases Activity

When we have friends, we’re more likely to get out and about. Whether this means pottering in the garden, traveling, going for walks, or joining classes, it’s all movement. Older people who socialize are more likely to stay fit and strong as they age. 

Friends Often Spot Warning Signs

We don’t always spot the signs that there’s something wrong with our health, and when we do, we’re often guilty of ignoring symptoms, hoping for the best, and not wanting to waste a doctor’s time. Your Friends will sometimes spot things before you do, and they’ll definitely encourage you to get help if they think that you need it. 

All of this means that making new friends and making an effort to keep in touch with old ones can improve your health and wellbeing so much that your quality of life, and even your life expectancy, improves. If you are finding it hard to make friends, check your local area for community groups, classes, and events, and don’t be scared to reach out. 

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