Being new is never easy. It doesn't matter if you're the new kid at school, moving to an unfamiliar city, or looking for a senior living community that will allow you to enjoy your Golden Years with maximum benefit; the challenges are often the same.
As you embark on your new journey to find a great senior living community, remember that others have come before you. While it may seem scary at first, there are many friends waiting to welcome you on the other side of your endeavor. Once you find a great community, you can breathe a little easier, knowing the place you've chosen has set you up for success in your Golden Years.
Here are a few friend-making tips to get you started:
1. Keep Your Existing Connections
Just because you're moving, that doesn't mean you have to give up on the life you already have. Your established relationships are incredibly important, and the people who know you now can comfort you best when you're feeling distressed. Don't distance yourself; instead, invite existing friends to your new community for a meal or activity.
It's often easier to step outside of your comfort zone when you have a familiar face by your side.
2. Participate in Activities You Enjoy
When you share common interests with people right off the bat, you have built-in icebreakers when it's time to start a conversation.
Do you love watching movies? Go to one of the 60 movies offered every month in the two cinemas at the 10 Wilmington Place cinemas. Do you enjoy a good trivia session? Check the monthly activity calendar and test your knowledge against others.
When you're in an unfamiliar environment, one of the easiest ways to settle in is to seek familiar activities that bring you joy.
3. Make It a Point to Try Something New
Your Golden Years offer you the perfect opportunity to explore your interests. In doing so, you'll broaden your horizons and likely meet a few new friends along the way. If you've always wanted to try yoga but have been intimidated by the concept, let the welcoming, safe space of your new senior living community lay out a welcome mat. If the idea of Bingo sounds like a good time but you've never actually played, there's no reason you shouldn't start right now!
Think of your new home as an exciting endeavor, rather than a scary experience. The change in outlook will make you a magnet for a new circle of friends.
4. Embrace Mealtime
The dining room is often one of the most intimidating experiences for new residents in senior living communities. At first, it may seem as though everyone already has all the friends they need, but it's important to remember that each person you see was also new once, too. Your neighbors completely understand your fears, and many of them will be happy to welcome you to their tables.
Mealtime is meant to be enjoyed. Allow it to be a social experience, and the dining room could very well become your favorite space in the community.
Ready to start making friends in a great senior living community that's built to make every day even brighter than the one before? It's time to schedule a consultation with our 10 Wilmington Place team!
