The desire to remain in the comfort of our own homes is critically important to older adults. In fact, a recent research survey from U.S. News and World Report reveals that a whopping 93% of aging adults 55 years and older responded “the ability to live in one’s own home and community safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level was an important goal for them.”  That is nearly all of us that want to age in place and not move to a nursing home, assisted living, or age-restricted community!

Questions to Answer for Successful Aging in Place

However, successful aging in place does require some decisions. Friends Life Care was founded some 40 years ago to help older adults get a plan in place for living independently at home as they age. Over the years, the organization has served over 6,000 members and has gained much knowledge and experience in continuing care at home.

There are a number of things to consider when navigating the later years. These are things like checking off items on your retirement Bucket List, getting your home ready for aging in place, ensuring you are prepared for unexpected short- and long-term care needs, and more.

One of the questions many older adults need to answer is how to continue to engage and connect with others even as our social circle may be shrinking.

Useful Ideas to Help Avoid Isolation or Loneliness

Fortunately, there are numerous ways to be social in our local communities or even virtually from the comfort of home. Here are some useful ideas to help seniors and baby boomers in the Greater Philadelphia area make those personal connections which are so important to help avoid isolation or loneliness.

1. Be a Joiner — Online Communities, Friends & Family Groups, In Person Gatherings

Websites like Meetup.com offer a variety of online groups that cater to different interests. Whether you enjoy knitting, gardening, or hiking, there’s likely a group for you.

If you live in or around Center City Philadelphia, Delaware County, Montgomery County, or Chester County, then you may want to join a woman’s Gathering Group from The Ethel.

The Ethel also has an online community and e-newsletter that you could check out.  All of the Ethel groups and efforts were inspired by AARP’s inspirational founder,  Dr. Ethel Percy Andrus. 

With the rise of video conferencing platforms like Zoom and Google Meet, staying in touch with friends and family has never been easier. Schedule regular virtual get togethers to catch up, play games, or even host a virtual book club.

2. Keep Learning Lifelong

If you think of your local library as only a place to borrow books, then you may want to take another look. Nowadays, libraries are offering a whole lot more.  Some examples of recent programming in the greater Philadelphia area include yoga, computer workshops, movie nights, support groups, scrabble or bridge clubs, crafting groups including sewing tutorials, and much more.

And if you are more in the mood to connect online, check out AARP. They offer many virtual classes on topics ranging from fitness to art. These classes not only provide an opportunity to learn something new but also to meet like-minded individuals.

Have you heard of the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute “Olli” in Delaware? They offer many classes and events for people aged 50 and older and have locations across Delaware. Be on the lookout for an upcoming interview with the team at Olli which will be featured on the Friends Life Care Honestly Aging Podcast.

3. In Person & Virtual Volunteering

Many organizations offer opportunities to volunteer, both in person and remotely. In Philadelphia, you can find opportunities to give back on the Mayor’s Office of Civic Engagement and Volunteering Service.  And in the state of Delaware, you can find a searchable list on the Volunteer Delaware website.

There is also a website called Volunteer Match which connects volunteers with nonprofit organizations across various causes and locations. It allows you to search for opportunities based on your interests and availability.

For Friends Life Care Members

Friends Life Care recognizes that members both value their independence and their connection with others. That is one reason why Friends Life Care has developed resources that are an important benefit of membership.

As part of Friends Life Care’s VigR® Vitality, Independence, Growth, Resilience ™ programming, members can attend in-person and virtual events, workshops, and learning opportunities specifically designed with them in mind.

Learn more about the offerings on the Friends Life Care website.  Or ask your Care Coordinator for recommendations that fit your personal interests and lifestyle.

Conclusion

Do you want your aging in place experience to be a rich one with new connections, hobbies and fun pursuits?  It is true that being lonely and feeling isolated can negatively affect many aspects of our health as we age.

So, it is important to decide what is the right mix of activities for you. Whether through in person gatherings, online meetups, volunteering, or engaging in hobbies, there are countless opportunities to stay social and active. Remember, staying connected can be a key to a happy and healthy life while aging in place.

 

 

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