Making New Friends in Assisted Living: Tips for Seniors

Moving into an assisted living community is a significant life transition. While the new setting can offer safety, support, and comfort, many seniors wonder how they’ll connect socially in a new environment. Building friendships later in life may feel intimidating, but assisted living communities are uniquely positioned to make those connections easier and more natural. 

With the right mindset—and a few helpful strategies like joining group activities, starting conversations with neighbors, sharing meals in the dining room, or exploring hobbies through community clubs—forming meaningful relationships can become one of the most rewarding parts of this new chapter.

Why Social Connection Matters

Social bonds help improve emotional well-being, physical health, and mental sharpness, especially for older adults. Friendships help combat loneliness, increase life satisfaction, and provide a valuable sense of belonging.

The Power of Friendship in Assisted Living

One of the greatest benefits of assisted living is the opportunity to form deep, lasting relationships. Friendships between residents can:

• Boost morale and emotional well-being.
• Offer mutual support and companionship.
• Help each other navigate new routines and life transitions.
• Increase participation in community life.

Friendships enrich the everyday experience, turning what might have been a solitary routine into a shared journey filled with laughter, support, and joy.

Debunking the Myth: Making Friends as an Adult Is Hard

It’s common to hear that making friends gets harder with age, but that’s more myth than reality. While it’s true that opportunities may not present themselves as easily as in school or work settings, older adults are often more emotionally mature, open-minded, and appreciative of genuine connection.

In assisted living communities, shared experiences, similar life stages, and accessible social events actually make it easier to form meaningful relationships. With a welcoming environment and an open heart, this chapter of life can be one of the most socially rewarding yet.

Tips for Making Friends in Assisted Living

If you’re preparing for a move or settling into a senior living community, these tips can help make the transition more socially fulfilling.

Be Open to Small Talk

Friendships often begin with a simple hello. Whether it’s in the dining area, elevator, or garden, casual conversations are the foundation of deeper connections.

• Start with shared surroundings: Commenting on the food, weather, or décor can naturally lead to more personal topics.
• Use open-ended questions: Asking about a neighbor’s hobbies, background, or favorite community activities encourages dialogue.

Attend Community Activities Regularly

Assisted living communities offer a wide variety of events designed to bring people together in fun and engaging ways.

• Recreation programs like arts and crafts, music sessions, and games encourage group participation.
• Fitness classes provide not only a health boost but also a great way to bond over a shared routine.
• Discussion groups and book clubs foster deeper intellectual and emotional connections.

Share a Meal

Mealtimes aren’t just for nourishment—they’re one of the most powerful ways to foster happiness and connection. Research shows that people who regularly eat with others report higher life satisfaction, more positive emotions, and fewer negative ones, regardless of age, gender, or culture. 

Sharing a meal is easy. Try these tips:

• Sit with someone new: Switching up your seating can lead to unexpected conversations and help you form new friendships over a shared table.
• Join communal dining events: Themed dinners, holiday celebrations, and cooking demos make it easy to socialize while enjoying good food together.
• Cook your favorite meal for a neighbor: Show off your specialty for your neighbor, or host your own dinner if you feel capable and confident.

Get Involved in Special Interest Groups

Many communities offer clubs or committees based on hobbies and shared interests. Whether you enjoy gardening, writing, or knitting, joining a group helps you meet others who enjoy the same things.

• Start your own club: If you don’t see one that interests you, ask the staff about creating one—you’re probably not alone in your interests.
• Volunteer in the community: Helping plan events or mentor others fosters a sense of purpose while building strong social ties.
• Join a learning group or class: Whether it’s a language group, book club, or lifelong learning class, shared learning encourages regular interaction and gives you something new to talk about with others.

Decorate Your Space to Feel Like Home

Creating a cozy and inviting living space makes it easier for others to visit and for you to feel comfortable hosting.

• Add personal touches: Photos, books, and favorite mementos can become conversation starters.
• Invite others over: Even short, casual visits, such as coffee or a shared movie, can help strengthen budding friendships.

Be Patient with Yourself & Others

Making friends takes time at any age. Stay open, be patient, and let connections grow naturally—some form quickly, others take time. A warm smile and friendly attitude can make a big difference.

How Staff Can Support Social Connections

Staff are key to making assisted living feel like home. With thoughtful programs and encouragement, they foster a warm and inclusive environment where friendships grow.

• Welcoming new residents: Many communities offer orientation tours, social events, and “welcome buddies” to ease the transition.
• Encouraging participation: Staff suggest activities based on residents’ interests to help them get involved comfortably.
• Fostering connections: Staff often notice potential friendships and encourage them through seating, small groups, or shared hobbies.

Find Friendship & Community at Peregrine Senior Living

Friendships in assisted living are more than just nice to have—they’re a cornerstone of a thriving, meaningful life. With opportunities around every corner, a little courage, and a willingness to be social, seniors can build fulfilling relationships that make their new community feel like home.

At Peregrine Senior Living at Delmar Place, we understand that connection is at the heart of well-being. Our enriching activities, communal spaces, and supportive staff are all designed to help residents thrive socially, emotionally, and personally. 

Schedule a visit today to see how we foster a sense of belonging and help residents turn neighbors into friends.