Virginia is home to more than 1.3 million people over the age of 65, and while it might seem like creating a community among them would be straightforward, given their population, that is not necessarily the case. The reality is that seniors often struggle to connect and socialize due to physical or cognitive challenges. Senior loneliness is a medical issue so severe that some reputable bodies, such as the Department of Health and Human Services, describe it as an epidemic.
What should older individuals do to overcome barriers to socialization? The good news is that Virginia takes this issue seriously and provides numerous opportunities within local communities for seniors to come together and enjoy the presence of others.
Here are some local programs in Virginia for senior socializing.
The Importance of a Social Life at 65 and Beyond
Generally, people’s social lives gradually shrink as they age. Whether due to a friend group dwindling in number due to illness and loss or a person’s mobility restrictions that keep them at home, seniors spend more than half of their waking lives alone on average.
This trend has measurable medical consequences. Those who are experiencing senior loneliness are 26% more likely to die of any cause compared to those who maintain social connections. They are twice as likely to develop dementia, and rates of both strokes and coronary artery disease rise by around 30%. Staying involved with others is not just a part of emotional wellness (though that is essential, too); it could truly be considered a matter of life and death.
Local Virginia Programs for Socializing
Thankfully, Virginia is home to several programs that allow seniors to socialize regardless of their physical or cognitive abilities. If your loved one is looking for more opportunities to spend time with others and enrich themselves emotionally and mentally, consider:
Yoga for Seniors
NAMI Virginia and Veda Circle have collaborated to provide yoga resources for seniors who wish to participate, either on their own or with others. Many local adult centers provide this option as a group class, but getting out of the house is not necessary; Yoga for Seniors includes a video series and written guide that one can follow at home. Even connecting with the instructors in the videos is a great first step toward socialization.
Virginia Wellness Center for Older Adults
For those looking for a smorgasbord of options, the Virginia Wellness Center for Older Adults will not disappoint! This resource offers opportunities ranging from dance and art therapy to volunteering days and more. People are welcome to participate in games, cognitive activities, exercise, fitness programs, educational meetups, and many other options. These offerings vary to encompass those with all levels of ability.
Virginia Commonwealth University
For seniors near VCU, the university allows individuals over the age of 60 to audit classes. This is often true of other institutions of higher education across the state, so check those closest to you. By participating in a class, seniors can learn new things while making friends and engaging in meaningful conversations about compelling subjects.
Senior Connections Friendship Café
The SPAN Center facilitates neighborhood get-togethers where older folks can meet for a midday meal and share conversation. Multiple locations are available, and while there is an application process, the Friendship Café experience is welcoming to all seniors who would like to get out of the house and enjoy a refreshing snack with friends, both old and new.
Shepherds Centers
Non-profit Shepherds Centers often host learning events in which guest speakers provide a presentation with a follow-up discussion. Topics can range from crime-solving to gardening, so there is always something that your loved one may be interested in coming up in the pipeline. Active participation is encouraged!
Meetups
While not hosted by Virginia organizations themselves, many meetup groups operate on their own to connect people with the same hobbies and interests. Meetup.com is one such example, allowing individuals to find those who share areas of interest and then create groups. Some older folks enjoy groups that visit the local game store to try new board games every Saturday, while others participate in walking groups or bird watching.
Try Local Programs to See Which Ones Fit!
Virginia offers numerous local group programs to help seniors stay connected with their communities. The first step is to explore them and decide which ones are a good fit for your family.
Contact us to find out how the Shepherd’s Center of Northern Virginia is making a difference towards senior loneliness in communities such as Oakton, Vienna, Dunn Loring-Merrifield, Great Falls, Herndon, and Reston. If you’re outside these areas but have questions, give us a call at (703) 260-9568, and we’ll guide you to the Shepherd’s Center nearest to you!