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How to Maintain Social Connections and Build Strong Relationships as You Age

How to maintain social connections and build strong relationships as you age.

As people age, staying socially connected becomes more critical than ever. Friendships and relationships help keep us happy and healthy and protect our brains from aging. But sometimes, life gets busy, and meeting new people or staying in touch with old friends can feel more challenging. Luckily, simple ways exist to make and keep strong relationships at any age.


Why Are Social Connections Important?

Having good relationships is more than just fun—it’s good for your health! Studies show that people who stay socially connected:

  • Live longer – Friendships can reduce stress and boost happiness.

  • Feel happier – Spending time with others helps fight loneliness and depression.

  • Stay mentally sharp – Talking with friends and family can keep your brain active and lower the risk of memory problems.


How to Make and Keep Strong Relationships

Building friendships and staying socially active doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are some easy ways that the Dementia Society of America® recommends to stay connected:


Keep in Touch with Old Friends

Life gets busy, but staying connected with old friends is worth it.

  • Make a habit of calling or texting friends – A quick “How are you?” can keep a friendship strong.

  • Plan small get-togethers – A coffee date, lunch, or a simple walk together helps maintain bonds.

  • Send a message or letter – A handwritten note can brighten someone’s day!


Join a Club or Group

One of the best ways to meet new people is by joining activities you enjoy.

  • Try a book club – Talking about books is a great way to start conversations.

  • Join a music or art class – Shared hobbies help build friendships.

  • Be part of a sports team – Even casual games like pickleball or bowling can help you meet new friends.


Volunteer in Your Community

Helping others is a great way to meet kind, like-minded people.

  • Help at a local shelter or food bank – Volunteering allows you to work with others.

  • Read to kids at a library – Schools and libraries often need volunteers.

  • Join an animal rescue group – If you love pets, this is a fun way to connect with others.


Use Technology to Stay Connected

Even if friends and family live far away, technology makes it easy to stay in touch.

  • Use video calls – Apps like Zoom and FaceTime help you see loved ones even when you can’t be in person.

  • Join social media groups – Facebook, WhatsApp, and online forums help people with similar interests connect.

  • Try online games – Games like chess, trivia, or word puzzles can be played with friends online.


Be Open to Meeting New People

Making friends doesn’t have to be complicated. A simple smile or greeting can lead to new connections!

  • Say hello to neighbors – Small chats can grow into strong friendships.

  • Ask people about their interests – Most people enjoy discussing things they love.

  • Be a good listener – Showing interest in others helps build strong relationships.


Conclusion

Staying socially connected is one of the best things you can do for your happiness and health. Small efforts can make a big difference, whether keeping in touch with old friends, meeting new people, or using technology to stay connected. Relationships take time and effort, but they are worth it because friends and connections make life more enjoyable at any age!


Author:  AI-Assisted Human-Edited Staff Writer


We do not endorse or guarantee products, comments, suggestions, links, or other forms of content contained within blog posts that have been provided to us with permission, paid or otherwise. Dementia Society does not provide medical advice. Please consult your doctor. www.DementiaSociety.org


Additional Reading:

  1. Holt-Lunstad, J., Smith, T. B., & Layton, J. B. (2010). Social Relationships and Mortality Risk: A Meta-Analytic Review. PLOS Medicine, 7(7), e1000316.

    DOI: 10.1371/journal.pmed.1000316


  2. National Institute on Aging (NIA). Social Isolation, Loneliness, and Health in Older Adults. https://www.nia.nih.gov/


  3. Harvard Study of Adult Development. The Secret to a Long and Happy Life: Strong Relationships. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/


  4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

    Loneliness and Social Isolation Linked to Serious Health Conditions. https://www.cdc.gov/


  5. Wilson, R. S., Boyle, P. A., James, B. D., et al. (2007). Social Interaction and Cognitive Decline in Old Age. Journal of the International Neuropsychological Society, 13(2), 195-202. DOI: 10.1017/S1355617707070223


  6. American Psychological Association (APA). How to Stay Socially Connected and Why It Matters. https://www.apa.org/


  7. World Health Organization (WHO). Healthy Aging and the Importance of Social Connection. https://www.who.int/

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