One of the most difficult aspects of aging can be the loneliness. Friends and family pass or move away, severing our social connections. Loneliness can be as dangerous for your health as smoking 15 cigarettes a day. There are ways to connect with others.
Technology can help us connect with friends and family who don’t live in the area but nothing beats a face-to-face meeting.
Meals on Wheels
Social connections for homebound seniors can be challenging. Meals on Wheels provides a friendly visit during the week. In many instances, this is the only personal contact participants report they will have in a day. To find out if you qualify for Meals on Wheels, call (231)755-0434 or 1-800-442-6769.
Lunch & Activity Centers
Lunch & Activity Centers are neighborhood centers unique to each community. People come together to enjoy a hot meal and activities. It is a chance to get to know other seniors in your area and make new friends.
Senior Center Activities
In addition to the activities at the Lunch & Activity Centers, Senior Center Activities also provides other activities for Muskegon County residents funded by the Muskegon County Senior Millage. Programs include Aquatics Exercise Classes, Tai Chi, and Canvas Painting Classes. These classes are a great way to meet new people.
The Wellness Center at Tanglewood Park
The Wellness Center at Tanglewood Park provides numerous ways to connect with others. Whether it’s in a fitness class or art class. Maybe just sharing stories while working on your latest knitting/crocheting project during Stitchers Club or telling a fish tale at Fly Tying & Wood Carving. You can also meet others at Bingo or a Lunch & Learn. The Wellness Center allows you to get to know other people interested in similar activities or while trying something you’ve always wanted to do.
Discount Dining Program
Driftwood Café at Tanglewood Park is a great place to grab a cup of coffee, breakfast, or lunch with your new friends. You can also meet new people during Discount Dining on Tuesday evenings from 4 to 6 pm at the Driftwood Cafe. Enjoy a hot meal and get to know others.
Loneliness can be challenging as you age but it doesn’t have to be inevitable. AgeWell Services is here to help provide the social connections you need as you age.
