Hope, Health, and Connection: What We Can Do to Stay Supported as We Age
Do you find yourself reminiscing on stages of life that brought you joy and happiness? Maybe there were connections and friendships that you had in the past that have since changed and you find yourself now struggling to find new friendships. Nothing feels quite the same and you begin to tell yourself that this is just what happens when you get older.
Many older adults struggle with feelings of loneliness and isolation and are unsure how to take the first step towards connection. But what if it doesn’t have to be like this? Yes, aging brings changes, and it also brings opportunities to rebuild, connect, and find happiness. Regardless of your age or abilities, building hope, practicing healthy habits, and connecting with your community are ways to feel supported as you age. Here are some ways that you can foster support and connection as you move through life transitions.
Fostering support and connections as you navigate life transitions and aging
Set Social Goals, try setting 2-3 daily goals of social connections through phone calls, letters, or email. That could look like writing a note to a neighbor or leaving a voicemail with a friend that lives in another state. Invite them over for a weekly coffee date or set up a recurring day when you can call them to catch up. A small act of courage can help us feel hope and brightness in our future connections and lead to meaningful engagement.
Build & Fill Your Calendar, do you enjoy getting outside in nature? Are you passionate about a certain cause? You aren’t alone! There are many local churches, community centers, or volunteer organizations that offer events and social gatherings that bring people of all ages and interests together. Not only will you be able to enjoy something you are passionate about, but you will also have a chance to meet others who enjoy doing the same activities. Many organizations also offer organized transportation if getting around is an issue.
Reflect on New Needs & Boundaries, take inventory of how your needs are changing as you age. Being outgoing might take more energy than you have, and that is ok! Reflect on your limits and ways that you enjoy connecting with others. Take note of what self-care needs arise and how that might have changed as you age. Rest, care, and reflection are helpful ways to reconnect with yourself and learn to love who you are wherever you are in life.
Aging and living well can go hand-in-hand. Many of us will go through phases in life where loneliness and despair are hard to escape. With courage and compassion, there are paths to finding support and rebuilding your love of life and hope.
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Written by: Angela Amato, Masters-Level Counseling Intern
Angela Amato is a Masters-Level counseling intern at LifeSpring Counseling Services in Maryland. Angela enjoys providing counseling services to caregivers at our Baltimore City office and to individuals across Maryland via telehealth.
