Volunteer opportunities, senior college programs, group dining options and other social and recreational outlets for seniors.
One of Maine’s Agencies on Aging — a regional hub of resources, programs and services aimed at improving the health and well-being of older adults and their families. Programs include Meals on Wheels, caregiver support, social programs and transportation services to medical appointments.
Volunteer opportunities include public health programs, independent living assistance, veteran appreciation, environmental work, and caregiver respite.
Q: My mom had to leave her friends behind when she came to live with me. She’s always been social and I worry she feels lonely. How can she meet other people around her age?
Geriatric care manager, founder and president of Aging Excellence
A: I would recommend a few good options to start. Join your local senior/community center. They usually offer a monthly calendar of events and activities with many different levels of participation. Volunteering in your community is another way your mother can meet like-minded people. Help out at the library, community garden, animal shelter, hospital or museum. Colleges may offer senior college or have classes that people can audit. Stores of hobby/activity interest may have listings on groups or gatherings; that is, a knitting store may know of a knitting group, a book store may know of a reading group, a music store may know of a local band or singing group for seniors. And your mother can still stay connected and let her old friends know what she is up to by connecting through email or Skype!
Email us at [email protected] with your questions. We’ll find an expert who can offer advice and post their response here.
Visit The Challenge of our Age on Facebook to talk with other seniors and caregivers and share advice about issues you’ve faced.
