A companion is someone you feel affection towards and enjoy spending time with. A companion can be a close friend, sibling or someone you share a more intimate relationship with, such as a romantic partner. Companions are those who are easy to converse with, reminisce with, go out to dinner with, and enjoy special moments with. As you begin aging, companionship takes on a much deeper meaning. In this article, we will explore why companionship for seniors important as well as things you can do to help find a companion as you age.
Finding Companionship While Aging: A Guide for Seniors
What should you look for in an elderly companion?
An important aspect of companionship is both parties respecting one another’s space and time spent with other people. This helps to make sure that you both maintain your own friendships and interests. An ideal companion is easy-going, light-hearted, happy, and fun to be around. The perfect companion has similar interests to you and is someone you find interesting. Similar interests in charity organizations, games, volunteering, and movies can be tremendously beneficial to a friendship. Maturity and openness are also important aspects to consider. You want your companion to be un-defensive and vulnerable, honest, and full of integrity. When your companion acts with integrity, they are committed to their word. This is important in companionship. Respect, independence, empathy, and affection are character assets of a worthy companion.
Companionship is important as we get older
Companionship is incredibly important you begin aging. Having a companion prevents seniors from isolating which can be detrimental to one’s health. Companionship enriches the lives of seniors by promoting better physical, emotional, and mental health. It also helps keep seniors stimulated, active, positive, and socially active. Studies have shown that maintaining strong social bonds as you age, reduces the risk of developing age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s, rheumatoid arthritis, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis.
Dating and Companionship Apps for Seniors
As you become older, you may find your life becoming fuller and busier with work, family, hobbies, traveling, and spending time with friends. When you are on the go all the time, you might find it difficult to meet new people. The same may be true if you are more of an introvert and are unsure how to get out.
Although most dating apps appear to be for young adults looking for romance, these apps can be great for aging seniors looking for a companion. In fact, there are many great apps for finding a companion that are worth a try. Dating apps can be tedious and frustrating. However, they can also be very helpful if you stick with them. As a word of caution, be wise and be aware of scammers.
Here are some apps specifically designed to cater to the needs and preferences of seniors:
- SilverSingles: This platform is exclusively for singles over 50. It utilizes a comprehensive personality test to match users based on compatibility, preferences, and interests.
- OurTime: Owned by the same company as Match.com, OurTime focuses on helping seniors find companionship, friendships, and romance. It has a user-friendly interface and offers various communication tools.
- eHarmony: While not exclusively for seniors, eHarmony’s thorough matching system and focus on long-term relationships make it suitable for older adults seeking companionship.
Activities in your Community
Volunteering in your community is a wonderful way to meet new people. Offer to volunteer at one of your favorite charity organizations or an outreach program. Participate in various social groups and activities like book clubs, art classes, flower arranging classes, and card games. Volunteer to visit and read to the elderly at assisted living facilities or local nursing homes. You might meet a lot more like-minded friends this way.
What are the benefits of having a companion as you age?
Late adulthood is often marked by physical or cognitive decline. Companionship interaction can serve as a buffer and enhance your quality of life. It is important to remember that as you get older, you are still living your life with goals to achieve. In fact, you might be revisiting past goals and evaluating how these were met. Having a companion to discuss goals with and talk them over with can give you a sense of fulfillment. Having a companion to share your late years with will keep you feeling loved, cared for, and content.
Additional Information: Never Too Old to Find New Friends
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Nye Health Services is passionate about providing older adults with a wide range of wellness and health services that maximize health and well-being. If you are searching for a senior living community, explore one of our five locations in eastern Nebraska. Each campus provides award-winning health and wellness services, comfortable apartments and/or suites, and numerous amenities to help you live 2022 to the fullest! Contact us today to learn more about what sets Nye apart or to schedule a tour of a community near you!