Dear Eric: I am a 70-year-old woman who has a wonderful husband. <\/p>\n
I have some health issues, including cognitive impairment. For this reason, I do not drive, and I depend on my husband for all shopping and doctor\u2019s appointments. <\/p>\n
Do you have any advice for making social connections?<\/p>\n
\u2013 Lonely<\/p>\n
Dear Lonely: Making and maintaining social connections is going to look a little different at this point than perhaps it did in the past. This is neither good nor bad; change happens. But the fact that you have a desire to make connections is a fantastic first step.<\/p>\n
There\u2019s evidence that socializing can help with cognitive performance, as well. A 2021 study<\/a> by the Center for Healthy Aging at Penn State found that when adults ages 70 and 90 experienced more frequent social interactions, they also had better cognitive performance on that day.<\/p>\n Look into programs at your local senior center or YMCA and enlist your husband\u2019s help in adding events that interest you the calendar so that you can get there and get back. It\u2019s important to consider socialization as another crucial aspect of your healthcare, along with medical appointments and errands. These types of organizations often offer classes as well, which can be a great way to meet new people and meet you where you are cognitively.<\/p>\n There might be things you and your husband want to do together, or you may find programs that only appeal to you.<\/p>\n You may also want to be proactive about reaching out to friends and relatives and inviting them over to visit. You don\u2019t have to throw an elaborate lunch or even make tea. You can be honest about your capacity, if it makes you more comfortable, saying something like, \u201cI\u2019d love to see you. I\u2019m not in a place where I can formally host anymore, but it would be wonderful to catch up.\u201d Friends might welcome the opportunity to reconnect and to show you love.<\/p>\n For friends who aren\u2019t nearby, try catching up over the phone or video chat.<\/p>\n Lastly, talk to your neurologist about finding local support groups for you and for your husband. These can be great resources for new strategies and for social connection.<\/p>\n (Send questions to R. Eric Thomas at eric@askingeric.com<\/a> or P.O. Box 22474, Philadelphia, PA 19110. Follow him on Instagram<\/a> and sign up for his weekly newsletter at rericthomas.com<\/a>.)<\/p>\n \u00a92025 Tribune Content Agency, LLC<\/p>\n