Clubs, associations and company: find yourself a new friend group

Has retirement caused a void in your social life after you’ve spent most of your life devoted to your work? Have your children grown up and moved out of the house, leaving your days a little too quiet? Do you find yourself newly single and facing long evenings alone? Joining a group of people who share your interests can change all that.

Countless possibilities

Believe it or not, life after 50 offers many chances to forge new connections with people united around a cause or a hobby. You have many options, such as:

• Associations

• Clubs

• Committees

• Boards of directors

• Leagues

• Groups

Being part of a group is a great way to make new friends after 50. Regular meetups create a sense of belonging. Many people say their group feels like a second family. It can help you break isolation, stay mentally active, feel a sense of accomplishment and share your skills and knowledge. It’s a win in every direction!

No matter your interests—bird watching, walking, computers, caregiving, bowling, photography, heritage, health, education, ecology, card games, fighting poverty, music and more—you’re sure to find a lively group of like-minded people in your area. Give it a go!