Health & Aging | Community Experience
Friendship is one of life's greatest treasures, and it's never too late to discover new connections. At Presbyterian Senior Living, we believe meaningful relationships are the cornerstone of a fulfilling retirement lifestyle.
Whether you've just moved in or have been part of a community for years, cultivating new friendships remains one of life's greatest joys, regardless of age.
The Importance of Friendship Throughout Life's Journey
Friendship isn't just a pleasant addition to our lives. It's essential for our well-being. Research consistently shows that maintaining strong social bonds becomes increasingly important as we age. Studies from the National Institute on Aging reveal that seniors with active social lives experience better physical health, improved cognitive function, and longer lifespans than their more isolated peers.
Within a Life Plan community, residents have a unique opportunity to forge connections with others who share similar life experiences. Unlike friendships from earlier years, relationships formed during retirement often come with a special depth of understanding and appreciation for life's journey.
"People are just so open about sharing their lives,' explains Patti, a resident at Ware Presbyterian Village. "It's extraordinary the experiences that people have."
The Benefits of New Friendships in After 60
The health benefits of social connection for seniors are remarkable. Regular social interaction has been shown to reduce the risks of cardiovascular problems, arthritis, and even some types of cancer. Strong social connections contribute significantly to cognitive health, with lower rates of depression and reduced risk of cognitive decline.
Perhaps more importantly, meaningful friendships serve as powerful medicine against two of the most common challenges facing seniors: loneliness and depression.
Serena L., a resident at Westminster Village, Dover, DE, agrees. "Moving here was the best decision I have made," she said. "I left the isolation of a large home to be part of a welcoming community where I have made so many friends and an active, rich life."
There's something uniquely comforting about sharing your days with friends who truly understand the joys and challenges of your current stage of life.
Overcoming Barriers to New Connections
Many seniors initially resist making new friends, convinced that meaningful relationships can only be formed in youth. "I'm too set in my ways," or "Nobody wants to hear my stories," are thoughts that can prevent us from reaching out. This mindset can be a major hurdle, but the truth is that friendship has no expiration date. Everyone, at every age, craves connection.
Others may feel shy or socially anxious, especially after a big life change such as a move or the loss of a spouse. These feelings are completely normal, and it's okay to take small steps at your own pace.
Everyone in a new community has experienced similar transitions. Many residents have overcome shyness by starting small. Maybe they started by joining a structured activity where conversation happens naturally alongside a shared task.
"The abundance of activities and outings have offered have made it easy to make new friends," say Mary, a resident at Glen Meadows.
Joy, from Quincy Village, agrees. "If someone has a hobby, there's usually a group to fit in. The camaraderie is so strong ... they're excited to get together."
For those with health limitations, Life Plan communities offer numerous accommodations to ensure everyone can participate in social activities. Communities are committed to removing physical barriers to connection.
For example, Kevin Mallon, Corporate Director of Thrive Wellness at Presbyterian Senior Living, notes that community fitness programs are available for everyone and a great way to meet people. “Our fitness is accessible, even to those with limited mobility,” he says, adding, "Our trained professionals lead engaging group classes, helping resident stay active while building friendships."
Leveraging Your Life Plan Community's Resources
One of the greatest advantages of living in a Life Plan retirement community is access to built-in opportunities for connection. PSL communities are designed with socialization in mind.
At Pine Run Village, Doylestown, PA, a 37,000-square-foot community center anchors the campus activities. It features a fitness center, a pool, an auditorium, a library and dining amenities. Stroll through the center during the morning and you'll see a coffee klatch of men chatting, in the afternoon, people gathered for a lecture and in the evening for a musical performance.
Monthly activity calendars typically feature dozens of different events, from fitness classes and art workshops to lecture series and outings. These structured activities provide natural opportunities to meet residents with similar interests.
Interest groups and clubs represent nearly every hobby imaginable—book discussions, gardening, woodworking, bridge, current events, and more. If you don't see a group that matches your passion, the on-site team can help you start one!
Practical Steps for Making New Friends in Retirement
The simplest step toward connection often begins with a smile. Being approachable and making eye contact signals openness to interaction.
And, at our communities, welcoming committees - and friendly neighbors! - make it easy for newcomers as well. Resident ambassadors help new residents find activities and make sure they have dining partners for their first meals.
Finding common ground happens naturally when you participate in activities you enjoy. Whether it's discussing a book, working on a puzzle together, or sharing observations during a nature walk, shared experiences create perfect openings for meaningful conversation.
Kristie E., Ware Presbyterian Village, shared her experience with making friends, as well as starting a Photography Club, based on her personal interests.
Technology: A Modern Tool for Connection
Today's digital tools offer exciting new ways to connect. Many Life Plan communities offer technology resources such as computer terminals and training sessions to help residents stay connected. At PSL, all communities host a Connected Living channel and website which provides updates on events, schedules, special meals and more.
For residents with mobility challenges, a community streaming channel allows participation in on-campus activities from the comfort of home. At Quincy Village, "The Reluctant Grandpa," a completely homegrown musical production, was recorded and featured on the community’s YouTube channel in addition to its live performance.
Deepening New Friendships
Moving from casual acquaintance to meaningful friendship takes time and intentionality. Creating regular routines provides the consistent contact that allows relationships to deepen naturally.
Activities in a Life Plan Community makes that contact easier. Kristie, who leads the Photography Club at Ware Presbyterian Village, noted that not only does she lead the Photography Club, but "we've all become dear friends. After every meeting we go out to lunch together."
Another resident adds, "Participation is where you meet people. You get to know people. You get to meet people you like very much."
True friendship also means supporting each other through life's inevitable challenges. At PSL, resident-led support groups for caregivers, grief recovery, and health challenges provide spaces where deeper bonds can form through shared experiences.
Building Intergenerational Connections
Meaningful relationships extend beyond peer friendships. Many residents develop warm connections with team members, who bring different perspectives and energy to the community.
Intergenerational programs with local schools and colleges create opportunities for enriching exchanges with younger community members.
Students at the Sacred Heart School in Oxford, PA, host an Annual Senior Prom for the residents of Ware Presbyterian Village while Presbyterian Village joins forces with the Hollidaysburg Area School District High School Key Club for a Senior Prom. They are always a fun night of music, dancing, laughing, chatting and making new friends.
Balancing Independence and Community
Living in a vibrant community doesn't mean giving up your personal space. At Life Plan communities, residents can choose when to engage and when to enjoy solitude. Many describe finding the perfect balance between privacy and connection.
Quincy Village resident Richard agrees, "You can be as active as you want to be, or as inactive as you want to be. It's your choice."
A New Chapter of Friendship
The friendships formed during senior years often become some of life's most meaningful relationships. With fewer career and family obligations competing for time, these connections can flourish with a depth and authenticity that's truly special.
As Patti from Ware Presbyterian noted, "People are just so open about sharing their lives because there's no tension, no stress.
"When you move here, it's as if you have 100-plus new best friends."
We invite you to take one small step toward connection today. Attend a new activity, start a conversation at dinner, or simply introduce yourself to a neighbor. Your next meaningful friendship may be just a hello away.
