The role of community in retirement
One of our new Board members said to me after he was
elected, that he had been trying to reach out and become more involved in his
community and was glad he fund our association. It got me thinking. For many
when they retire, they lose the community they relied on when they were
working. So, in Retirement, having a supportive, vibrant community can greatly
enrich their life. Being apart of a supportive community provides companionship,
shared purpose, and mental and emotional support. Without these connections,
it’s easy to feel isolated, which can lead to feelings of loneliness or even
Depression. Focusing on community in retirement means focusing on well-being,
hope, and a sense of belonging.
Building connections is crucial because it fosters a sense
of purpose and meaning, which are essential. Community offers emotional
support, companionship, and opportunities for personal Growth. People with
strong social networks are healthier, live longer, and are more resilient to
life’s ups and downs. And it’s not just about avoiding loneliness; it’s about
creating joy, cultivating a support system, and continuing to grow and thrive.
As many of you are aware I
am a big believer in Local Senior Centers. They offer classes, Exercise groups,
hobby groups, and social events. Participating in these activities allows you
to meet people with shared interests and build friendships. I suggest you do a
Google Search for your communities local senior center. A starting point for my
American friends is the National Council on Aging’s Senior
Center Directory
Volunteering is one of the most
rewarding ways to connect with others. Not only do you meet like-minded people,
but you also get to give back, which can be immensely fulfilling. Start with VolunteerMatch, which lists opportunities for volunteers of
all ages.
Whether it’s Gardening,
knitting, painting, or a book club, engaging in hobbies within a group setting
is a fantastic way to socialize. Look for local classes, workshops, or
community groups. A friend of mine uses Meetup, which allows him to find or start groups based on
specific interests. He recently moved to a new community and by using Meetup, he was able to make
connections very quickly in his new home.
For those who may have
difficulty getting out, online communities offer an excellent alternative.
Social media groups, forums, and even virtual classes can connect you to others
worldwide. Facebook has groups like “Seniors Connect” that allow you
to meet people with similar interests. Many of the local seniors organizations
have their own Facebook pages so you can check them out as well.
Two of my brothers have religious or spiritual inclinations,
and they and their wives are involved in their local churches. I have done
workshop at local Synagogues, and Temples so I know that they often offer
social events and study groups for seniors. These can be excellent places to
connect with others.
Many universities and colleges
offer lifelong learning programs that allow seniors to take classes, often at
reduced rates or for free. This is not only intellectually stimulating but also
a great way to meet people. A starting point could be Road Scholar which offers
educational Travel and classes for older adults.
In your community, the people you meet, the connections you
make, and the activities you enjoy give you something to look forward to and a
reason to get up every day. Retirement is a wonderful new chapter in your
journey and it is better when you have the support of a caring community.
Embracing the power of community opens doors to meaningful
connections, joy, and the chance to continue learning and growing. Retirement
can be one of the most fulfilling stages of life, enriched by friends, shared
experiences, and a hopeful outlook on the future.
Originally Published on https://boomersnotsenior.blogspot.com/
