The early years of midlife are a hectic time for many people. Around the time people reach their late 30s and early 40s, many of them are balancing the responsibilities of a career and a family. But as people enter their 50s, some of those responsibilities may be less significant, leaving more time for recreational pursuits.
Hobbies and other pursuits outside work are often more fun when enjoyed with friends. People over 50 likely recognize that it's not always easy to make new friends, even though it's beneficial to have supportive relationships in one's golden years. A 2017 study from researchers at Michigan State University found that valuing friendships was a stronger predictor of health and happiness among older adults than valuing family.
Making friends after 50 might not be as simple as it was during one's school days, but the following strategies can help to build new friendships.
- Identify interests. Fifty-somethings who have spent the last couple of decades building a career and raising a family can give some serious thought to their interests outside of work or passions they hope to pursue now that they have more time to commit to such pursuits. The more interested a person is in a given activity, the more likely he or she is to stick with it and possibly meet like-minded individuals who may become friends.
- Utilize social media. In years past, men and women over 50 may not have had readily available tools to reach out and connect with new people. Social media has made it easier to build such connections. Even the most obscure passions likely have a social media group of locals devoted to them, and these groups can be great ways to meet new people. A local runners' club may have its own social media accounts, and local governments and community groups often share information about sports leagues and other groups via social media.
- Sign up for group outings. Communities often sponsor group outings to museums, theatrical productions, sporting events, and more. Signing up for a bus trip to a local museum presents a great opportunity to meet people who share one's interests, providing the potential to build lasting friendships.
- Broaden your horizons. Just because people are in their 50s does not mean their friends have to be. Friends come in all ages, so don't hesitate to invite younger or older acquaintances and colleagues over for dinner or on weekend excursions.
Making friends after 50 can be challenging. However, various strategies can help people in this age group to connect with new people.
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