Practical Tips for Increasing Social Interaction

Some Suggestions

• Pursue social activities, like lecture programs, or traveling with friends.
• Get involved in projects that require you to have regular contact with others, like planning a gathering for a club, organizing a card- or game-playing night with friends, or helping out with a church supper.
• Investigate the options for social interactions available in your community — take advantage of programs and services offered at community and senior centers, or at your local offices for aging.
• Seek out people who may share your interests by getting involved at your place of worship, in clubs, and in other organizations.
• Volunteer for a cause you believe in by contacting a local nonprofit organization, such as a charity you find meaningful, or a local school or museum.
• Get connected while you improve your health: Join a walking or biking club or your local fitness center, go out golfing, or take yoga or cooking classes.
• Take an adult-education or college course in something that interests you — you might be amazed at how much you enjoy going back to school!
• Consider animal companionship, too. Furry, finned, and feathered friends can bring great joy, love, and meaning into our lives. Animal shelters are full of potential companions looking for good homes. (They can also be great places to volunteer.)
• Can you think of an activity that would provide mental simulation or physical exercise as well as social interaction?
• Call a friend, family member or shut in and ask how they are doing. Share anything new or interesting in your life.
• What else might be fun to do with others?