There’s nothing better than a good friend – one you can call when you’re feeling down; those you’re the first to go to when something great happens; the ones you can always count on. While it’s true that as we age, friends may come and go, there’s plenty to be said for those who stay – and the ones we make along the way.
Benefits of Senior Friendship and Socialization
Social connections, friendships and meeting new people can have physical, mental and emotional benefits for older adults. Discover some of the many advantages below.
Physical Benefits
Having friends increases your activity levels.
If you’re always trying a new activity with a friend, doing sports together, going on walks, or consistently competing in yard games, you’re not sitting at home alone with little physical activity. Doing these things with your friends helps you get out of your space and keeps you active and connected.
Did you know that socializing beyond your normal friend and family group can have physical benefits, too? A study in The Journals of Gerontology, Series B: Psychological Sciences and Social Sciences found that those who have more variety in their social interactions spent less time being sedentary.
Friends encourage you to be your best self.
Those you love can be great motivators when it comes to regular exercise and eating healthy. Whether they are working toward a healthier lifestyle with you, or you want to remain active while being at your personal best, your health will likely benefit.
If health problems occur, you’ll have support.
Your best friend may have had a similar ailment (or know someone else who did) and be able to provide advice. An acquaintance may know exactly how to help care for you during a migraine. Another friend may know the perfect chiropractor to get you moving again without pain.
Mental and Emotional Health Benefits
Friendship can decrease the risk of cognitive decline.
Socializing can help improve brain function and sharpen cognitive abilities. It can also lower the risk of dementia.
Social contact with family members, close friends or new friends increases positivity.
Those surrounded by a vibrant social circle are less depressed, isolated, and lonely. Many people find that they are at their happiest when they are around their friends and loved ones. Whether this is because laughter is contagious or because friends provide a sense of belonging, socialization can boost mood, increase feelings of happiness – and may even help you live longer!
The Science Behind Social Connection
Friendship and socialization are not just enjoyable, they are critical to overall health. Research has shown that strong social ties are linked to longer lifespans, better immunity, and lower risks of chronic conditions. A study published in PLOS Medicine even found that the health risks of loneliness can be as harmful as smoking or obesity. For older adults, staying socially engaged provides one of the most powerful forms of preventive care, supporting resilience both physically and mentally.
Expand Your Circle
Do these senior socialization benefits have you ready to spring into action? Some older adults may choose to expand their social circles by joining senior centers; however, many seniors find that a senior living community like Waterstone at the Circle offers a wider variety of programs, activities, and benefits – along with expanded possibilities for engagement and socialization. And even better, they await just outside their door.
Practical Ways to Strengthen Friendships in Senior Living
Friendship often grows out of shared experiences and opportunities to connect. That is why senior living communities like Waterstone make socialization a central part of everyday life. Residents can spark new friendships by:
- Joining group activities such as fitness classes, discussion groups, and clubs.
- Gathering in welcoming common spaces like lounges, libraries, and dining areas.
- Participating in resident-led programs that reflect shared passions.
- Enjoying casual social moments, from gardening side by side to chatting around the firepit.
These opportunities mean friendships can flourish naturally, whether through planned events or spontaneous encounters.
Waterstone at the Circle: Making Socialization Easier
Here, there’s always an opportunity to engage with new friends, add variety to your activities, and bring even more fun to life. Discover how our lifestyle can keep you socially active.
At Waterstone at the Circle, we offer a carefree lifestyle where everything is taken care of for you, freeing you to pursue new passions, make new friends, volunteer your time and talents, or join a new club.
With a multitude of possibilities that await around every corner, you can have your choice of things to do – and plenty of people to enjoy them with.
- Play games in the card room
- Enjoy a movie in the theater with friends
- Relax in the great room with family
- Bond over the love of pets while helping your furry friend socialize
- Explore Boston and all it has to offer with outings and trips
Explore Culturally Immersive Programs and Special Interest Clubs
It’s easy to meet plenty of people who share your interests simply by filling your social calendar with what you love. Some of the many programs we offer include:
- Lecture series
- Film screenings
- Concerts
- Group tai chi
- Creative writing courses
- Painting classes
- Aqua aerobics
- On- and off-site educational programs
The Role of Purpose in Social Wellness
Many friendships grow deeper when tied to a shared sense of purpose. Volunteering, mentoring, or leading a group activity gives residents meaningful ways to connect while contributing to their community. At Waterstone, residents not only participate in programs but also help shape the activities calendar. By sharing their talents and interests, they create opportunities for new connections, stronger bonds, and a deeper sense of fulfillment.
Social Wellness as Part of Whole-Person Wellness
Social wellness is just as important as physical or emotional wellness. At Waterstone, programs that encourage connection are seamlessly integrated with dining, fitness, cultural enrichment, and lifelong learning opportunities. The result is a well-rounded lifestyle where socialization is not separate from well-being. Friendships and connections are nurtured alongside personal health, creating a balanced environment that helps residents thrive.
Experience All Waterstone at the Circle Has to Offer
The best way to get a feel for whether Waterstone at the Circle is right for you is by visiting, talking with residents, and exploring our lifestyle for yourself. Schedule a tour or visit our website today to learn more about our premier independent living community for seniors 62 and over.