“There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.” —Thomas Aquinas 

There are six or seven of them. A group of wonderful ladies from very different backgrounds who come together for their daily hot chocolate group. This group at MBK Senior Living’s Tuscany at McCormick Ranch has helped bring many shy residents out of their shells purely by spreading so much joy and positivity.  

One afternoon, activities had planned a hands-on baking class that was going to be low in attendance. The Director of Wellness Programming approached the hot chocolate group during their social hour to see if even one would be interested. After a few moments, two of the ladies spoke up.  

“That sounds like fun!” they said. “Do you have room for all five of us?”  

They talked the rest of the group into attending and had an amazing time.  

Senior Living Is Better Together 

One of the benefits of moving to senior living is the newfound friendships that can form. A senior living community is rife with new neighbors, dining partners, and friends you see during daily activities.  

At MBK Senior Living, we believe that life is better together and that community is the foundation of a fulfilling senior living experience.  

Within our communities, the concept of Better Together manifests in various forms, contributing to the well-being and enrichment of residents, families, team members, and the wider community. It encapsulates the idea that by joining forces, leveraging individual strengths, and fostering collaboration, we can create environments that promote growth, fulfillment, and a sense of belonging for all. 

In essence, Better Together is a way of life—a commitment to creating environments where everyone can flourish, thrive, and make a meaningful difference, one selfless endeavor at a time.  

The Importance of Friendships Later In Life 

Friendships are important at all phases of life, but for older adults, the benefits truly enhance one’s quality of life with meaningful relationships leading to increased happiness and a greater sense of purpose.   

Studies show that friendships in senior living play a crucial role in enhancing both psychological and physical well-being. They help alleviate loneliness, provide emotional and instrumental support, and promote a sense of connectedness through shared activities and laughter.  

Friend ties can also contribute to maintaining cognitive function and health in older adults. Additionally, local friends may step in to provide caregiving support when family is far away, creating an essential support network. These relationships offer meaning and companionship, which are vital for overall life satisfaction in later years. 

Opportunities for Building Friendships in Senior Living 

Senior living communities offer the unique opportunity to forge new friendships later in life. Many aspects of senior living provide the perfect chance to meet new friends and develop meaningful connections. 

• Community activities. Planned activities like game nights, movies, fitness classes, outings, and cultural events offer a natural setting for meeting others.  

• Shared spaces. The communal areas of a senior living community, such as dining areas, lounges, libraries, salons, and outdoor spaces are conducive to casual conversations and connections.  

• Resident clubs and interest groups. Resident clubs and groups based on hobbies and interests—such as the Adventurer’s Club at many of our MBK Senior Living communities—bring like-minded individuals together.  

• Staff support. Employees onsite can help introduce new residents to others and encourage participation in social events. Many MBK residents develop meaningful connections with our amazing team members.  

Tips for Starting and Nurturing Friendships 

Making new friends at any age can be a daunting task, especially when adapting to new surroundings. Keeping these tips in mind can help combat the challenges of meeting new people. 

• Be open and approachable. Have an open mind and positive attitude, initiate conversations, and most of all, be approachable. Smile!  

• Participate actively. Engage in activities and attend community events regularly.  

• Volunteer or Lead. Volunteer for resident roles within the community.  

• Follow-up. Following up with new acquaintances is the best way to develop and maintain a new friendship. Invite them to eat with you or join you for an activity in the community.  

For some, shyness and social anxiety can make developing new friendships more difficult. For others, previous life experiences or the diversity of personalities in a senior living community might play a role in making new friends challenging. Take it easy and start small—or enlist the support of a team member. Patience and understanding can lead to meaningful relationships. 

Friendship Is A Key to Thriving in Senior Living 

As we age, the bonds we form become more significant than ever, adding joy, meaning, and fulfillment to everyday life. At MBK Senior Living, we see firsthand how these friendships transform our communities into vibrant, supportive spaces. Whether it's a spontaneous hot chocolate gathering or a shared experience during a class, the connections built here remind us that life truly is better together. 

So, whether you're considering senior living for yourself or a loved one, know that there's always room for one more at the table, one more hand to hold, and one more friend to meet. After all, every new friendship is a new adventure waiting to begin.