While you’re reviewing your New Year’s Resolutions, you probably want to be healthier, feel more optimistic, have better mental clarity.  There’s one resolution you can have that can accomplish all that and more: Be more social!

The National Institute on Aging reports that social isolation is a growing problem among older people with significant health risks….and that increasing social contact is the cure.

Let’s Get Started: think it over

Is there something you vowed to do in 2024 that you had to put on the back burner for whatever reason or excuse? Here’s your chance to wipe the slate clean and think about how 2025 could be the start of something new and stimulating to bring you closer to your health, recreational and social goals.

Many activities hit them all: yoga and other fitness classes offer conditioning and socialization while others (knitting and book groups, for example) deliver new skills and cognitive enhancement pursuits. Senior Planet offers many ways to get healthy, share or learn an interest, and meet new people – either virtually or through Senior Planet walk in centers or our licensees throughout the country.

But isn’t it hard or scary to break out of the comfort zone and try something new?

“You deserve to live your best life, and you deserve to be excited,” says Jillian Amodio, LMSW, licensed social worker at Waypoint Wellness Center in Annapolis, MD.

“At any age, it’s important to recognize we are lifelong learners, and we are always capable of growth and enjoying new things. Some seniors might say, ‘I’m too old to try something new,’ but it’s especially important this time of year to step in and be proactive.

“Seniors can form friendships at any age,” she adds. “Join a bowling league or, if you don’t want a big commitment, try a one-off art class like a sip and paint class. Try an online course to study something you’ve always been interested in, like bee keeping, wine making, beer brewing, or history. Ask yourself: What is something I’ve always been interested in, but never had the time or finances to try? What did I do when I was younger that I enjoyed and would like to take up again?”

Amodio says there are so many ways to connect. “Look at your local library or senior center, where you’ll often find free classes. If you live in an environment that’s less accessible, try an online trivia group, social chat groups, online book clubs. There are even online classes that teach piano.”

There are other advantages for starting something new, says Amodio.

“Seniors are putting themselves at risk for cognitive decline if they stop learning. Additionally, meeting new people and getting out there and getting involved helps socially, physically and mentally.”

Of course, after you take a class to boost your cognitive performance, you can still get more physical and join that gym in January–or how about one of Senior Planet’s free online Fitness and Wellness classes?

Get Social where you are

The National Institute on the Aging offers these tips to help you break out of your shell:

• Find an activity that you enjoy, restart an old hobby, or take a class to learn something new. You might have fun and meet people with similar interests.
• Schedule time each day to stay in touch with family, friends, and neighbors in person, by email, social media, voice call, or text. Talk with people you trust and share your feelings. Suggest an activity to help nurture and strengthen existing relationships. Sending letters or cards is another good way to keep up friendships.
• Use communication technologies such as video chat or smart speakers to help keep you engaged and connected.
• If you’re not tech-savvy, sign up for a class at your local public library or community center to help you learn how to use email or social media.
• Consider adopting a pet.
• Stay physically active. Find ways to exercise with others, such as joining a walking club or working out with a friend. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes (2 1/2 hours) of moderate-intensity activity each week.
• Introduce yourself to your neighbors.
• Find a faith-based organization where you can deepen your spirituality and engage with others in activities and events.
• Check out resources and programs at your local social service agencies, community and senior centers, and public libraries.
• Join a cause and get involved in your community.

Other tips to get more social in 2025

Check out Eventbrite for events in your area (some are free!)

Try sharing your own passion. Can you knit, quilt, or make pottery? Are you a history buff? Why not teach a class where you have expertise you are willing to share? Teaching is a powerful way to share your own passions.

When making your decision, pick something convenient because if it’s close to home, you’re more likely to go!

Be realistic about your time commitment to any new activity…but give it at least three tries before you decide it’s not for you.  Hang in there – you’ll find your niche!

YOUR TURN

What new activity or interest will you adopt in 2025? Let us know in the comments!

Jennifer Juergens Thomas has a lifelong interest in how people get together.  As a former AP reporter she covered feature stories and later wrote about conventions from Anaheim to New  Zealand as editor of Meetings and Conventions magazine. She was a public relations consultant for clients like the Society of Incentive and Travel Executives focusing on how and why people need to get together. An Orlando resident, she continues to contribute to Meetings Today magazine among other ventures.