We all know that staying socially connected is important for our health as we age. But, if you’re wondering how to get your senior parent to engage more, you’re not alone. Many older adults tend to stick to their routines, sometimes missing out on valuable opportunities to build social connections that could boost their mental and emotional well-being. If this sounds familiar, we’ve put together a few strategies to help you encourage Mom or Dad to socialize more frequently.
Have an open conversation.
Start by having an honest and open discussion with your senior parent about your concerns. Explain how maintaining connections with others can improve their overall health and quality of life. Share examples of people you both know who have benefited from becoming more socially involved, whether through a community center or a senior living community. Be sure this is a two-way conversation, allowing them to express their thoughts and concerns. Listen sympathetically if they talk about their challenges with socializing, and avoid making it feel like you’re telling them what to do.
Explore their hobbies and interests.
Find out what activities your senior parent enjoys and look for groups or programs that match those interests. Whether it’s weekly bingo, a gardening club, or art classes, activities that align with their passions will make socializing more enjoyable and less intimidating.
Encourage volunteering.
Volunteering offers a wonderful way for seniors to socialize while also giving back to the community. At The Residence at St. Peter’s, we provide opportunities for our residents to volunteer at the local church and school that are located right next to our community. This allows seniors to meet new people, form connections, and gain a sense of purpose through meaningful engagement.
Assist with transportation.
One of the biggest barriers to socializing for seniors is limited mobility or transportation. If your parent wants to attend social events but struggles to get there, offer to drive them or help arrange a ride through services like Uber or Lyft. Sometimes, all it takes is reliable transportation to help them stay in touch with friends and engage more with the outside world.
Establish a routine.
Help your senior parent create a weekly schedule that includes regular social activities. Having a predictable routine will make them more likely to commit to and enjoy the experience. For instance, you could set up a regular Trivia night on Tuesdays and ensure that they have transportation both to and from the event. Once they settle into a routine, socializing will become a natural part of their week.
Remember, encouraging your senior parent to be more social may take time and persistence. They might resist at first, but by gradually introducing them to new opportunities and highlighting the benefits, you can help them step outside their comfort zone and start forming meaningful connections.
Senior Activities at The Residence at St. Peter’s
Group activities are a fantastic way for seniors to meet new people and develop a sense of community. At The Residence at St. Peter’s in Bergen County, we offer a wide variety of social activities such as chair yoga, bingo, painting classes, and even happy hours. Our staff is available 24/7 to remind residents about scheduled activities and help foster connections with fellow residents who share similar interests.
In addition to group activities, our community dining room offers the perfect setting for social interaction, with three nutritious homemade meals served each day. Sharing meals not only encourages healthy eating habits but also provides a relaxed environment for residents to engage in meaningful conversations.
If you’d like to learn more about the social activities we offer in River Edge, NJ, please call us or visit our website at: https://www.stpetersresidence.org/
