Retirement is an exciting time full of new opportunities and relationships. Many adults choose to move to a senior living community during this time to take full advantage of their newfound freedom since they provide services and spaces that make it easy to create these new experiences and connections. 

The desire to build friendships is one of the top motivators for moving into senior living. However, just like starting a new job or moving to a new neighborhood, moving to a senior living community comes with the usual worries about fitting in, especially if you’re a more introverted person. 

Fortunately, senior living communities, like Franklin Park® in San Antonio, are designed to make building friendships simple and enjoyable. With shared spaces, group activities, and more, Franklin Park® Senior Living is the ideal place to build lasting relationships after retirement. Here are a few tips! 

Greet Everyone

It can be intimidating to move to a new place where you feel like everybody knows everybody and you stand out as the “new” person. If you’re already slightly introverted, this can make you feel even more self-conscious, and you might be tempted to keep your head down as you walk through the building. However, if you smile and say hello to everyone you pass, you’ll quickly get to know other residents and staff! 

Find Other New Residents 

Going through a new experience can be easier when you have someone going through the same thing. After you’ve moved into your senior living community, try to seek out someone else who is newer to the community. Together, you can learn the ropes of your new home, attend activities, and start building your circle of friends. 

Fully Immerse Yourself 

Friendships aren’t made by staying in your apartment by yourself; you have to get out there and get involved! Franklin Park® offers daily activities, events, and programs that you can attend to meet fellow residents. 

Whether it’s an exercise class, an art program, or something unique like line dancing or poker night, getting involved in the community will be your opportunity to meet others. Plus, going to specific classes and programs can even help you find people with similar interests! 

Take Advantage of Meal Times

Some of the best bonding (inside and outside senior living) happens around the dining table. Sharing meals with others is known to enhance emotional and physical well-being, as well as create a space for bonding and building trust. 

After moving into your new home, gather some courage and ask if you can join a group at their dining table—chances are they would love to have you join them! If you’re looking for some topics of conversation, here are some talking points to get the ball rolling:

• Tell us about your family/children/grandchildren
• What is your favorite place you have visited?
• What is your favorite memory from your childhood?
• What is the craziest thing that has ever happened to you? 
• Have you ever served in the military? 

Be the Host 

If you find yourself having trouble going out and meeting people, invite them to come to you! You can host a happy hour or game night, or it can be as simple as having your neighbor come over for coffee. Just knowing one person can open you up to a larger circle of friends. 

Be Patient

The most important thing about building friendships in senior living is to realize that it won’t happen overnight. Everyone makes friends at their own pace, and it’s important not to rush anything. The most important thing is just to be yourself and let people get to know the real you. If you find yourself genuinely struggling, speak with a member of the staff. They know all the residents and can connect you with someone! 

Building Connections at Franklin Park®

Franklin Park® Senior Living offers luxury senior living services throughout San Antonio, Texas. Each of our communities is designed to encourage social interaction and help residents build friendships. Here, you’ll find residents spending time together in the pool, the game room, the library, or enjoying a meal together in the dining room. Each day is full of unique opportunities to socialize and connect! 

To learn more about life at Franklin Park® Senior Living, and discover our independent living, assisted living, and memory care services, we invite you to visit our website!