Top 7 Tips To Widen Your Social Circle

Loneliness kills. In fact, compared to those with strong social networks, older Americans who have few relationships are at two to four times greater risk of premature death, regardless of weight, alcohol use, and other lifestyle factors. Americans who get emotional support from their circles of friends are more physically active and mentally alert. And people – including seniors – who say that they have strong social support also need less pain medication after surgery, recover faster, and follow their doctor’s orders more faithfully. Here are a few suggestions to widen your social circle.

1. Dive Into Your Community
   
   Help out at your local library. Tutor at an elementary school. Volunteering is an excellent way to meet interesting people.
   
   
2. Get A Part-Time Job
   
   Even if you don’t need the money, the social contacts that you will make with your co-workers can be priceless.
   
   
3. Share Your Interests
   
   Hang out in places where you are likely to meet people who share your interests. Churches, museums, flea markets, and bookstores are good starting points.
   
   
4. Attend Social Events
   
   Accept every invitation you can to social events like parties, graduations, and weddings.
   
   
5. Be An Ice-Breaker
   
   At a party, recreation center, or other gathering, make a conscious effort to meet new people. After you introduce yourself to someone, try to keep the conversation focused on that person’s interests. You’ll probably make a new friend.
   
   
6. Pamper A Pet
   
   Caring for dogs, cats, and other pets has been shown to help many people, including the seniors to live longer, and animals are an instant icebreaker among strangers.
   
   
7. Developing A Network
   
   If you have difficulty getting out, call your local geriatric social service agency or area agency on aging and ask for a list of others who are interested in developing network of phone pals. If the organizations in your area haven’t started a list, volunteer your services to get one going.

Raymond Lee is one of the foremost experts in the health and fitness industry and is the Founder of Bodyfixes Group specializing in body health, muscle development and dieting. He is currently the author of the latest edition of "Neck Exercises and Workouts." Visit http://www.bodyfixes.com for more information.