Embracing new friendships and overcoming loneliness
They're the ones we call for support when we've had a bad day, or to share the excitement of a good day. When there's a new cafe you want to visit, or when you simply want company for a movie night in.
There truly is nothing like friends; the family you get to choose for yourself.
However, it can be tough to create and maintain friends as we age, which is leaving some Kiwi seniors feeling lonely due to social isolation. A study by Age Concern Auckland found that 59% of participants aged 65+ had recently felt lonely or socially isolated, with almost a third (30%) of those respondents experiencing these feelings frequently or all the time.
So what can we do about it?
Recognising the signs of loneliness in older adults
Firstly, recognising loneliness is not as simple as it might sound. Keep an eye out for these signs in your friends and family, and in yourself:
- Generally feeling unwell or getting ill more often
- Sleeping poorly
- Eating poorly
- Low self-esteem
- Feeling resentful of others
- Struggling in social situations
- Increased drinking
- Binge watching television
Overcoming loneliness
Feeling like a few too many of those signs are hitting home? Here are a few practical tips on how to make friends later in life so you can keep the loneliness at bay and find meaningful relationships.
Sign up for new activities
Finding an activity or hobby that you have in common with someone is like a cheat code for new friends.
That could be a book club, a puzzle swap group, a hiking club, a board game night, or just about anything else. These groups are always keen for new members, and the shared activity takes the pressure off by giving you something to work on together.
Volunteer for a cause you’re passionate about
One of the biggest reasons for volunteering in New Zealand is to create social connections, and is second only to giving back to the community in terms of reasons why people do it.
So it’s no wonder that doing good for others can also be a great way to do some good for your social life.
Explore ways to get involved in the countless volunteering efforts in your area, and sign up for something that resonates with you – no doubt it will also resonate with all the other people who have signed up as well.
Consider adopting a pet
Pets can be the most wonderful, cheeky, adorable little companions, and there are plenty of them sitting in shelters all over New Zealand looking for someone to love them.
A dog can help to keep you active as you take it out for walks each day, and can get you socialising with others during those walks and while hanging out at dog parks.
Of course, they make for great company at home, so you’ll always have a buddy around even if you are living alone.
Check out support groups and online communities
If there’s one thing to remember about feeling lonely, it’s that, however ironically, you are not alone with that feeling.
There are plenty of support groups and online communities around the country, and you can join any one of them to find connection and support.
Age Concern has a number of services , including its own volunteering network and a visiting service. Friendship NZ is one massive social group for making friends in retirement (or for those who are soon-to-be retired), and Senior Net is a learning network that offers classes to help you make the most of modern technology. Stitch is a dedicated (and recognised by the United Nation) community for anyone over the age of 50.
Often the biggest hurdle is taking that first step by signing up for something new. From there you can find more enjoyment and purpose in your life. And for a little more peace of mind, Seniors Life Insurance can assist in covering any unexpected costs for you and your family. Learn more and request a quote today.
12 Mar 2025