Friends and friendship

For several years, Bronnie Ware sat by the bedsides of dying people and as a result, she wrote a book The Top Five Regrets of the Dying. The conversations shared were personal, life-changing, and enormously insightful. Others have expanded on her work by interviewing patients in palliative care units and nursing homes who are seeing their last days on earth to share their regrets in life. Their answers were memorable and worth considering as you retire. One of the top three regrets of people who were dying was I should have made more time for my friends.

When health and youth have faded, people realize what is truly valuable they find that all their income and achievements amount to nothing in the end. What matters in those last few moments are the people who are dear to them. At that time, they tend to miss their friends.

It’s so easy to get lost in the daily grind that you forget to take care of your relationships. If you don’t intentionally stay in touch, you may lose contact with your friends through the years.  It's challenging to maintain friendships as we age, especially if we move away from the people we’ve known for a long time. Our lifestyles and interests change. If we cannot maintain contact with old friends than we need to make new friends.  Making new friends as a senior or adult can be a rewarding experience that brings joy, companionship, and a sense of belonging. But many of us forget how to make new friends, so here are some starter ideas:

Join clubs, groups, or organizations that align with your hobbies and interests. Whether it's a book club, a gardening group, or a fitness class, these shared activities provide a natural way to meet like-minded individuals.

Senior centers often offer a variety of social activities, from game nights to art classes. These centers provide a welcoming environment where you can meet people your age and form connections.

Volunteering is a fantastic way to meet others who share your passion for giving back to the community. Whether you're helping at a local charity, animal shelter, or school, you'll find kindred spirits who value the same causes.

Keep an eye out for local events, fairs, and festivals. These gatherings can be a great place to strike up conversations and meet people in your neighbourhood or town.

Many seniors are active on social media platforms and websites designed for connecting with others. You can join online groups and forums that cater to your interests or demographic and then arrange to meet people in your area.

Enroll in classes or workshops that interest you, whether it's learning a new language, taking a cooking course, or attending a writing workshop. This is an excellent opportunity to interact with others who share your learning goals.

Staying active and healthy is important for seniors, and participating in fitness classes, yoga, or walking groups can be a great way to meet new friends who prioritize health and well-being.

If you are part of a religious or spiritual community, attend services and events to connect with people who share your faith or beliefs.

If you are a college or school alum, attend alumni gatherings and reunions. Reconnecting with old acquaintances and making new ones can be quite fulfilling.

To make new friends, you need to be open to new experiences and approachable. Smile, engage in conversations, and show genuine interest in others. Don't be afraid to initiate conversations and take the first step in building connections.

Remember that making new friends takes time and effort, so be patient and persistent. Building meaningful relationships can greatly enrich your life, providing companionship and support we need.