As human beings, we're not made to go it 100% alone. The Bible is fairly clear that God created people to support and fellowship with each other. 1 Thessalonians 5:11 says, "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
But for seniors who have moved into an assisted living community, it might seem difficult at first to find a tribe and make new friends. Maybe you've moved away from your existing community, neighborhood and congregation. Perhaps you've lost good friends and have yet to make new ones, and there's a tendency to simply give up and say that at some point we're too old for such things. In reality, though, you're never too old to try new things, meet new people and make new friends.
Here are three ways seniors can network and find friends in Fort Worth.
If you're a resident of Bethesda Gardens assisted living community in Fort Worth, start right on the property. We encourage our residents to live vibrant, active lives that include plenty of socialization, which is why we keep a calendar of scheduled events and outings you can participate in.
You can also make use of numerous common spaces to meet, greet and gather with new and old friends. Play games on one of the fenced-in patios, enjoy an afternoon cookout in one of the garden spaces or meet for dinner in our 50s-style diner. You can also invite friends and family to dine with you or use our catering services for special events you want to host.
Local senior centers throughout the area provide additional activities and socialization options for seniors. Get out and meet seniors from around the neighborhood at the Southwest Recreation Center, which is nearest to Bethesda Gardens. It's located at 6300 Welch Avenue in Fort Worth. Seniors interested in programming at this center can call 817-392-7613 for additional information.
MeetUp.com is a website that helps people of all ages connect with like-minded individuals in their neighborhoods. You can browse groups designed specifically for seniors to find friends who are interested in travel, hiking, arts, holistic wellness and many other topics and hobbies. You can click on each group to find out more about it, see how many people in the area are a part of it and where the next meetup will be.
When meeting people online, always follow safety rules — even when you're attending an event with numerous other people. Carry a cell phone with you and let someone you trust know exactly where you're going. If you're nervous about meeting up with new people, invite someone else from the assisted living community to join you in this adventure.
