E Z I S R E P SU FE your
I L L SOCIA
By Torie Temple
B
eing social has taken on a new definition since the advent of social media. But being sociable doesn’t have to mean long hours in front of a computer screen. There are many opportunities to get out and mingle with people who have similar interests right in your neighborhood. Here are the top 15 ways to amp up your social life today.
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START ONLINE
For those who don’t know where to start to meet people, Meetup.com is the perfect place to browse for local groups. Simply go to the website, pick the category that’s of interest to you, and browse all the groups that meet in your area. There are meetups of book clubs, hiking groups, and even a laughing yoga group. It’s an easy way to find people close to you who enjoy the same interests. Susan Kwasny, health and wellness director at Jewish Community Center, recommends meetup.com to anyone looking to stay connected and to find new and exciting things around town.
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GET FIT
Humana Guidance Center on Hikes Lane provides a myriad of opportunities for seniors to stay healthy and active. Seniors do not have to be a Humana member to join in on the free classes that benefit mental and physical health as well as a chance to make friends. Join the Silver Sneakers for a workout or participate in other activities such as movie night or bingo. 502.479.6580
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FIND SUPPORT IN YOUR NEIGHBORHOOD
If moving to a complex that offers a coordinator program isn’t feasible, apartment complexes also work with other programs such as Elderserve Senior Companions. This program is designed to help seniors who want to help other seniors. Companions are matched with seniors who don’t often get out to meet with other people. As a senior companion, you can provide socialization or help with daily chores like grocery shopping. Fairington Apartments is a volunteer station for the Elderserve program and matches seniors with their more vulnerable residents. www.elderserveinc.org.
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Spring 2018 / TodaysTransitions.com
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TAKE A TRIP
The Jewish Community Center knows how to keep seniors in shape, entertained, and informed with many cultivated programs to suit individual needs. “The Senior Social Club has gone to places like Brown County and the race track,” says Health and Wellness Director Susan Kwasny. “It’s a great way to meet people who are where you are.” Seniors do not have to practice the Jewish faith to join the fun, which also includes exercise programs, technology classes, and playing a game of pickleball. jewishlouisville.org
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VOLUNTEER
There is no better way to get active within the community than volunteering, and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program can help you find the perfect place to lend your services. RSVP can match seniors to volunteer opportunities in Jefferson County. Seniors will perform a minimum of four hours of service in a six-month period. https://louisvilleky.gov/government/ resilience-and-community-services/ retired-and-senior-volunteer-program-rsvp
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SEE THE SERVICE COORDINATOR
Many senior income-based apartment complexes have service coordinators. “The purpose of a service coordinator is to assist residents with aging in place by securing services for them in their homes as well as reducing social isolation,” says Heather Childers, service coordinator for Fairington Apartments. Programs are set up throughout the month that residents can attend such as bingo, crafts, and exercise groups. There is also ongoing education about cooking, Medicare, and winter time blues. PAGE 8>>