Some say, "You can't teach old dogs new tricks." But as we age, we understand that adapting to changes in our lives is as natural as breathing-our social circles change. Our children grow up and start their own families. We start thinking about slowing the pace of our daily lives. We think about retirement and what we want to do once our careers wind down. We find ourselves looking for new ways to connect with others.
We ride the wave of change. Sometimes, that means moving into a 55+ community, knowing it can provide us with the perfect opportunity to start a new life while making new friends and building a solid social network.
At Sun Communities, we cultivate an environment that builds a pleasant neighborhood our residents can call home. We provide active adults with an inclusive space that suits their lifestyles and needs. Our communities offer unique amenities and activities, such as 18-hole golf courses, clubhouses, game rooms, and state-of-the-art gym facilities. Making new friends in active lifestyle communities with these engaging amenities is fun and easy!
Here are some tips for making new friends in your new community.
Get Involved in Community Activities
One of the best ways to meet new people in a 55+ community is to get involved in various activities and events. We offer amenities tailored to our client's needs, making it easy for them to live an active lifestyle.
For example, our Water Oak Country Club Estates is perfect for golf enthusiasts. With an 18-hole golf course and bistro-style restaurant, making friends is a hole-in-one! Not into golf? Take advantage of the Florida sun! Dip your toes in one of our two outdoor pools, play a game of pickleball, or join a group walk on walking trails.
Other activities at this property include social clubs, fitness classes, game nights, and other group activities that open doors to meeting like-minded individuals.
Volunteer in the Community
Volunteering is an all-American culture. It's also a great way to give back and even an excellent way to meet new people. Many of our 55+ communities are situated around local areas where volunteer opportunities are plentiful. Whether it's planting fruits and vegetables at a community garden, organizing a charity event, or participating in a neighborhood clean-up, volunteering can help you connect with others who share your passion for making a difference.
Be Open and Approachable
When making new friends, you must put yourself out there and be open and willing to create new connections. Smiling, making eye contact, and having a friendly demeanor go a long way for others to feel comfortable approaching you. With a tailored lifestyle and amenities that suit your personality, attending community events organized at Sun Communities and creating new connections is simple.
Living your best life is convenient when you live by green fairways, play card games, go on day trips to nearby towns with friends or stay active and fit.
Utilize Technology and Social Media
Technology is a valuable tool for staying connected and meeting new people. Many 55+ communities have online forums, social media groups, and community websites where residents can communicate and organize events. Joining these online social platforms can help you stay informed about community activities and connect with others who share your interests!
Attend Social Gatherings
There are many activities and social gatherings such as potlucks, happy hours, and holiday parties. Take advantage of these opportunities to mingle and connect with your neighbors. We also provide fitness classes or group walks for residents who love physical activity. These events offer a relaxed and informal setting in which to get to know others in the neighborhood.
Be Proactive
We provide a tailored lifestyle to keep our residents active and engaged, but making new friends in a 55+ community requires some initiative. Don't be afraid to take the first step in reaching out to someone you'd like to get to know better. Invite a neighbor for coffee, suggest starting a walking group, or organize a game night in your home or the clubhouse. Taking the initiative can foster new connections and build community within your neighborhood.
Be Patient
Building meaningful friendships takes time, so be patient with the process. It's normal to feel out of place when you first move into your new 55+ community, but with time and effort, you'll begin to form connections and build a social network that enriches your life.
Living the Good Life in Active Adult Communities
Moving to a 55+ community is more than just finding a place to live-it's about embracing a new chapter filled with opportunities to connect, engage, and thrive. By participating in community activities, being open to new friendships, and taking advantage of the social and recreational amenities, you'll quickly be surrounded by a supportive and vibrant network of individuals At Sun Communities, we make it easy to build meaningful connections while living the lifestyle you've always dreamed of. Your new home is just the beginning of a fulfilling journey where friendships and memories are made.
Find your active 55+ community.