There are many reasons for wanting to widen one’s circle of friends. It may be a close companion has found a ‘significant other’ and is not so available any more. Or close friends have moved away, or even passed on. Perhaps you simply want to expand your friendship group so you are not so dependent on a small group for company. Whatever the reason, making new friends in later life can be rewarding, and there are many ways to go about it. Here are just a few suggestions others have found helpful:
More of the same
If you already belong to an interest group (such as a gardening club or ‘men’s shed’), join another! You already know the ropes, and your confidence will appear attractive to others.
Become a registered ‘visitor’
Several organisations provide accredited visitor services, matching volunteers with those who appreciate their company. Volunteers regularly report they not only make friends with those they visit, but also get to know, and make friends with, their ‘client’s’ family and neighbours.
Join a craft circle
Our woolly country is full of friendly groups who love nothing more than siting and knitting or crocheting together. There’s room for everyone, from the experienced to the beginner, and you can look for them right here. If you can’t find a knitting or craft group in your area, start one in your own home, and advertise it in your local newspaper or online noticeboard.
Baby sitting
Become a paid baby sitter for one set of parents, and you’ll soon be in hot demand with their friends, and friends of friends. Baby sitting is a great way to meet others, and become a part of an intergenerational group of friends. Advertise your services on Babysits NZ, the noticeboard of your supermarket, your local Plunket and early childhood centre, and in your community newspaper. Be prepared to provide character references and a police check.
Join a Strength and Balance class
Find friends and improve your physical abilities by joining a strength and balance class. These groups exist all over the country, and you can find them here. If you need to drive to reach a group, be sure to invite others in your community to join you – that way, you double your opportunity for widening your friendship group!
Quiz night competitor!
Love ‘The Chase?’ If you do, then a quiz night may be the very thing to help widen your friendship group. Check out local quiz nights in your area, and phone ahead to see if there are opportunities to join in with a team on your arrival.
Join a walking group
Walking together is one of the easiest ways to strike up a friendship. The casual nature of the activity, and the fact you can advance or lag behind to meet the people you want to, all add up to hassle-free opportunities to mix and mingle until you naturally ‘click’ with another. Check out walking groups in your area here, and be sure to enquire about required levels of fitness. There’s something for everyone.
Hop on-line, and meet-up!
Becoming active in an on-line interest group isn’t all about sitting in front of a screen. Many on-line groups also meet-up in person for social get-togethers. Check out your existing on-line groups for safe meet-up opportunities, or join a group where this will be possible. Why not start with Grownups NZ ‘Friends and Meet-ups!’
Life is for living, and socialising is one of the most important ways to remain mentally healthy as we age. Search out new friendship opportunities today!