According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, in 2023, as many as 34% of adults aged 50-80 experience feelings of isolation.
One of the best ways to combat these feelings of loneliness is by joining local senior social clubs. These clubs work to connect older adults with like-minded individuals in their area, bonding over a shared love of games, hobbies, sports, and so much more.
But what are the best senior community activities to engage in? This helpful list has everything you or your loved ones need to thrive in your community.
Chess Clubs
Calling all chess lovers in search of fun senior living events! Chess clubs come in all shapes and sizes and range from pure fun to highly competitive – it all depends on what a person is looking to achieve from joining one of these groups.
There are different ways to find local chess clubs, from online social media groups (provided they’re trustworthy) to the US Chess Federation’s website. Any older adult looking to get out and enjoy a game of chess (or a tournament) can easily find something in their area geared at a variety of experience levels.
Bingo
Bingo is a widely popular game with seniors, and for good reason. It can enhance coordination, offer opportunities to socialize and provide mental stimulation.
Anyone who wants active senior living groups to participate in should consider a gaming group that focuses on Bingo. These senior group activities are usually available at local firehouses, churches, and senior centers, so keep an eye out for opportunities to play this game while making new friends in the community!
Dance Classes
Older adults who want to get out and salsa or merengue need only to look for local dance classes. Some types of dance groups offer:
- Ballet
- Jazz
- Tap
- Ballroom dancing
- Hip hop
And so much more! With dance classes, the sky is the limit, as seniors can try various dance styles while making new friends. Many of these dance groups offer socials so older adults can get together and mingle at different mixers while putting their dance skills to the test.
Even better, dance fitness is perfect for older adults looking to stay healthy while meeting new friends.
Walking Groups
Seniors looking to make new friends while staying healthy can find local walking clubs or can start one on their own. These groups are a great way of getting fit while having fun and bonding with other people in their community.
Walking groups can benefit both men and women. Even better, they can be tailored to accommodate a variety of ability levels while improving overall health and fitness.
Arts and Crafts Clubs
Did you know that arts and crafts can improve cognition, reduce stress, and form new friendships? Although a lot of senior living communities offer tons of wonderful amenities for older adults to enjoy, they may still want to join other local social groups to partake in arts and crafts.
These groups might meet at:
- Local libraries
- Municipal buildings
- Churches
Older adults will benefit from various arts and crafts activities, making beautiful items for gifts, holiday decor, and so much more.
Sewing, Knitting, or Crocheting Groups
Anyone looking to make new friends while learning a new skill (or fine-tuning an existing skill) should consider joining a sewing, knitting, or crocheting group. These clubs are perfect for socializing, and seniors can make beautiful items for their home, as gifts, or even for donation.
For example, seniors can make items to donate to:
- Children’s hospitals
- Nursing homes
- Animal shelters
While meeting new friends and partaking in an enjoyable activity, seniors can give back to the community around them.
Volunteer Organizations
Volunteer organizations offer fun for seniors who want to meet new people, socialize, and help out locally. These volunteer organizations should fit a senior’s ability level and interests and should always be with reputable organizations. This includes (but isn’t limited to):
- Animal shelters
- Children’s hospitals
- Libraries
- Food pantries
- Community gardens
Seniors will meet new friends while doing something positive to help others during their time of need.
Book Clubs
Do you love to read? If so, then you may want to consider joining a book club, enjoying the best novels while discussing them with other bibliophiles.
When reading, seniors benefit from:
- Reduced stress
- Better sleep
- New perspectives, as reading teaches something new
If there aren’t any local book clubs, older adults can look to start one in their senior living community, connecting with other residents as they bond over a shared love of literature.
Join a Senior Center
Seniors who want something to do regularly should consider joining a senior center. These locations often offer gaming rooms, thrift stores, and plenty of opportunities to get together and socialize. Even better, seniors with grandchildren can take them there during certain hours, enjoying the day together and bonding over various fun activities such as bocce ball.
Some activities at a senior center include:
- Art clubs
- Book clubs
- Bingo
- Gardening
- Educational workshops
No matter what an older adult’s interests are, senior centers have something for everyone. Some senior centers even offer fitness centers with different types of exercise classes, working to keep older adults healthy and socialized.
The Best Senior Social Clubs In Your Area
When looking for the best senior social clubs in your area, be sure to consider your interests.
Are there certain hobbies or skills you’d like to share with other individuals in your community? This might be knitting, sewing, crocheting, reading, or exercising, all depending on your interest levels. No matter what type of club you’re looking to join, there is something for everyone, game clubs included!
Conservatory at Plano has everything a senior could ask for in a senior living community. With tons of exciting amenities and opportunities for socialization, including trips to local areas attractions and a wonderful card and game room, Conservatory at Plano is simply the best around. Contact us today, and a member of our dedicated staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have about our community.
