How to Be Less Lonely As You Age

Recent reports such as Loneliness and the Aging Population, Connect2Affect, and Expand Your Circles – Prevent Isolation and Loneliness As You Age reaffirm the importance of staying socially connected in our older years. For a particularly poignant illustration of this issue, watch Changing Batteries (5 1/2 minute video) offered by the Unlonely Project. Loneliness is a particular issue for older persons, but can occur at any age. Below are some tips for how to be less lonely:

1. Nurture your existing relationships. Many of us form friendships at jobs which often disappear when we move to a new employer. Make it a priority to stay in touch with past colleagues.
2. Find ways to do things you love to do with other people. In my case, for example, I love nature photography, so I need to find others who share this passion.
3. Volunteer to a cause that is meaningful to you. This is a great way to take the focus off yourself and to help others to be less lonely.
4. Look up from your phone. There are probably interesting, friendly people around you as you go through your day – if you take the time to notice them.
5. Whenever possible, get in touch face to face or by phone. Sending an email or text isn’t the same as having some personal contact with others.
6. Don’t take your friends for granted. Tell them often how much you appreciate having them in your life, and make time to spend with them regularly.
7. Learn something new – with others. I’ve found many wonderful online documentaries to learn more about staying healthy, but I also seek ways to take classes or attend events where I’ll be with other people.
8. If you have already or are planning to retire, make it a priority to find social activities – we often underestimate the importance of work in providing a community.
9. Keep a gratitude journal of good things in your life. The more you focus on what’s good, the more good you will find.
10. Take advantage of resources specifically designed to reduce social isolation. In NYC, my organization DOROT offers many programs to older persons to stay socially connected. Through the Virtual Senior Center, I also teach monthly online classes for older adults who prefer to learn and socialize from home.