The Best Social Groups for Seniors – How and Where to Find Them

Finding love and companionship after divorce or widowhood can be tough for seniors. One of the main reasons for this is social isolation. Social interaction is an essential aspect of our lives which becomes even more crucial as we age. Research indicates that social groups for seniors are linked to better physical and emotional health for seniors.¹

Social isolation is a real issue for seniors which can lead to depression and other health problems. In turn, it becomes harder to meet others, and even harder to be a suitable partner for a romantic relationship.

Joining local social groups for seniors can help combat these challenges and offers many potential benefits. Social groups can provide seniors with opportunities to meet new people, pursue their interests, and engage in activities that promote physical and emotional well-being. Social groups can also lead to new friendships, companionship, and possibly even romantic relationships.

One way to make socialization easier is to get involved in social groups that revolve around something of interest to the single older adult. As you’ll see in the article below, there is no shortage of ways for older adults to socialize.

A key thing to remember about social groups is that dating should not be the primary motivation for joining. It seems that one of life’s paradoxes is that you’re more likely to get something you want when you let go of the desire for it.

In short, join a social group without romantic expectations. Then, if companionship and love come your way, consider it the icing on the cake!

If not, you benefit by taking good care of your mental, physical and emotional health.

How to Find Senior Social Groups (and Maybe Love and Companionship)

Here is a list of online and traditional offline ways to improve your social life and maybe even find a great romantic partner.

Table of Contents – The Best Social Groups for Seniors

Senior Centers – How They Work and Where to Find Them

Community Centers – What They Offer and How to Find Them

Volunteer Organizations – 5 Ways to Find New Socializing Opportunities

Religious Organizations Unique Social Groups

Meetup Groups – Best Way to Meet Like-Minded People

Online Dating – Widen Your Social Circle

Senior Fitness Activities – How to Become a Better Partner

Book Clubs – 4 Ways They Help Your Social Life

Garden Clubs – How They Offer Multiple Social Opportunities

Other Senior Group Activities and Hobbies – Where to Find Them

Conclusion – Social Groups for Over 60

Senior Centers – How They Work and Where to Find Them

Senior centers are community-based facilities that offer programs and activities that cater to the needs and interests of older adults. They are typically non-profit organizations that provide a range of services and resources to seniors only.

These programs may include fitness classes, educational workshops, arts and crafts, games and social events, and various types of classes. Senior centers also offer transportation services, which is helpful for those with mobility issues.  

Senior centers operate in communities throughout the country and are often run by local government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private businesses.

Social interaction is a vital component of senior centers, and they facilitate social interaction and help seniors find companionship. Senior centers provide opportunities for seniors to meet new people, make friends, and engage in social activities. Seniors can participate in group activities, such as card games, bingo, or organized trips, which can be a great way to meet like-minded individuals.

For seniors looking to enhance their social lives and connect with others, senior centers can be an excellent resource. In the next section we’ve included a list of resources to help you find senior centers in your area.

Community Centers – What They Offer and How to Find Them

Community centers are like senior centers in that they offer programs and activities that cater to the needs and interests of older adults. However, community centers differ from senior centers in that they serve a broader range of age groups, including children and young adults. Community centers will offer programs and services that cater to all age groups. It’s likely they have specific programs that are designed for seniors.

As with senior centers, community centers can be a great option for those who want more social activities. Seniors can meet new people and build relationships while engaging in activities they enjoy. These centers offer a range of programs and activities such as fitness programs, arts and crafts, music and dance classes, and organized trips. These programs are designed to promote physical and mental well-being while providing opportunities for social interaction.

Community centers also typically offer the chance for seniors to contribute to their communities through volunteering and civic engagement programs.

Where to find local senior centers and community centers

Here are some resources you can use to find local senior centers and community centers near you:

1. The National Council on Aging provides a directory of senior centers on their website. You can search for centers by state or zip code.
   
   
2. The Area Agency on Aging provides information and resources for seniors, including a directory of senior centers. You can search for community and senior centers by city, state or zip code in their Eldercare Locator.
   
   
3. Many local government websites provide information about community centers and senior centers in the area. You can check the website of your city or county government for more information.
   
   
4. Many communities have local directories of resources, including senior centers and community centers. You can check your local phone book or search online for community resources directories in your area.
   
   
5. Yelp or Google Maps: You can search for senior centers or community centers on Google Maps on Yelp by entering your location and the keyword “senior center” or “community center”. This will provide a list of centers in your area along with reviews and ratings from other users.

Volunteer Organizations – 5 Ways to Find New Socializing Opportunities

Volunteering is another excellent way for seniors to meet new people and develop new relationships. Volunteer organizations offer a range of opportunities for seniors to get involved in their communities, engage in activities they enjoy, and meet like-minded individuals.

Volunteering gives older adults an opportunity to contribute support, services, and companionship to their communities while taking care of their own well-being.

There are numerous volunteer organizations that cater to seniors in every imaginable area of interest. A few examples include:

Meals on Wheels America is a well-known volunteer program which delivers meals to home-bound seniors across the country.

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide, which provides free tax preparation services for seniors over fifty. It’s staffed by volunteers who are trained and IRS-certified.

AmeriCorps Seniors serves local communities with a range of volunteer opportunities, including mentoring, tutoring, economic opportunity, disaster services, veteran support and environmental stewardship.

SCORE – a network of experienced business owners, managers and executives who mentor and educate new business owners in their community.

The Audobon Society is a volunteer organization with the goal of protecting birds and the places they need to survive and thrive. You can find a local Audobon Society chapter here on their search page.

Where to find local volunteer organizations

Here are some resources you can use to find local volunteer organizations in your area:

1. VolunteerMatch lets you search for volunteer opportunities by location and interest. You can create a profile and search for volunteer opportunities that match your skills and interests.
   
2. Idealist connects people with opportunities to volunteer, work, or intern with nonprofit organizations. You can search for opportunities by location and interest.
   
3. United Way is a nonprofit organization that partners with local organizations to provide volunteer opportunities. You can search for volunteer opportunities at United Way by location and interest. You can also find local social groups to join.
   
4. Local newspapers or magazines may have listings of local volunteer organizations. You can check their website, browse their latest edition, or contact them directly for more information.
   
5. The community centers we mentioned above may host other volunteer organizations or have information about local organizations. You can check their website or contact them directly.

There is no shortage of volunteer organizations that cater to seniors and offer a range of opportunities for them to get involved. Volunteering is a win for seniors and communities alike.

Religious Organizations – Unique Social Groups

Religious organizations provide a community for those who share a common faith. These communities can be a great source of social interaction and support for seniors. Faith-based organizations offer social programs and activities that cater to the needs and interests of seniors, creating opportunities for social engagement, friendship, and companionship.

A few examples include potluck dinners, game nights, clothing drives, choirs, food pantries, and organized trips.

Religious organizations also provide services such as counseling and support groups, which can benefit seniors who are dealing with physical or emotional challenges.

Where to find local religious organizations

Here are some resources you can use to find local religious organizations:

1. You can use Google to search for religious organizations in your area. Simply type in the name of your city or town along with the type of religious organization you are looking for, such as “churches near me” or “synagogues in [city name]”.
   
2. You can check your local phone book for listings of religious organizations in your area. Most cities and towns have directories available in print or online.
   
3. The Yellow Pages directory provides listings of businesses and services, including religious organizations. You can search for religious organizations by location or category.
   
4. Many local government websites provide information about religious organizations in the area. You can check the website of your city or county government for more information.
   
5. Many religious organizations maintain directories of local churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, or other places of worship. You can search online for religious directories in your area or stop by the office of any religious organization.

Meetup Groups – Best Way to Meet Like-Minded People

Meetup groups are social networking platforms that connect people with similar interests in their local communities. These groups are organized around specific topics or activities, such as hiking, knitting, or book clubs. They provide opportunities for members to connect and engage in shared activities. Meetup groups are free to join and typically meet in person or online.

There are many meetup groups designed specifically for seniors. Examples include groups for seniors interested in fitness, travel, social events, and hobbies. There are meetup groups for practically any interest and demographic you can imagine.

Where to find local meetups

Here are some resources you can use to find local Meetup groups:

1. Meetup.com is the most popular site for finding local meetup groups. You can search for groups by location and interests, and RSVP to attend events. If you don’t see a group you like, it is easy to start your own. Meetup gives you all the tools you need to create your own group and promote it to its millions of members.
   
   
2. Facebook Events allows you to search for events and activities in your area, including meetup groups. You can search for meetup events in your area and use their messaging feature to get in touch with the event organizer.
   
   
3. Eventbrite lets you search for events and activities in your area, including meetup groups. You can search for events in any category and RSVP to attend.
   
   
4. Local newspapers or magazines may have listings of local meetup groups. Browse the latest paper or check their online edition if they have one.
   
   
5. Community centers may host their own meetup groups or have information about other local groups.

Online Dating – Widen Your Social Circle

Online dating continues to grow in popularity among seniors in recent years. We talk about that growth here in this related article.

While it’s technically not a group activity, it is a convenient and efficient way for seniors to widen their social circle by meeting new people one-on-one. It helps to avoid isolation and can  lead to companionship or even romantic partnership.

Chat, messaging, and video chat on dating sites and apps makes it easier than ever for seniors to connect with like-minded individuals, regardless of their location.

There are many popular online dating platforms designed specifically for seniors. Some of the more popular and reputable platforms among older adults include:

eHarmony (the most popular site among our readers)

SilverSingles

SeniorMatch

These sites offer a range of features and tools to help seniors connect with potential partners, including personality tests, customized matching algorithms, and safe messaging tools.*

Navigating the online dating scene as a senior can be challenging, especially if you’ve never used online dating tools.

Here are some quick tips to help single older adults navigate the online dating scene:

1. Be honest and upfront about your age, interests, and intentions.
2. Use recent photos that accurately depict what you look like now, not what you looked like twenty years ago.
3. Take the time to fill out your profile in detail, providing information about yourself and what you are looking for in a partner.
4. Be patient and take the time to get to know someone before meeting them in person.
5. Be proactive. Reach out to partners who look compatible. Don’t rely solely on the site to send you matches.
6. Always exercise caution when communicating with someone you have met online and never give out personal information until you are comfortable doing so.

Where to find good online dating sites for seniors

You don’t have to go far because we put together a list of the top online dating sites and apps for older adults.

We know online dating sites work because Daisy and I would never have met were it not for a dating site—and we lived across the street from each other for several years!

Online dating sites are an essential tool to meet compatible people your age. They’re safe and have lots of features to help in your search.

Use common sense just as you would in meeting people in real life. Follow the sites safety guidelines, and read more about online dating safety here in this related article.

Senior Fitness Activities – How to Become a Better Partner

Physical activity is proven to boost our physical and mental well-being at every stage in our life. Engaging in regular exercise can help seniors maintain mobility, balance, and coordination while it reduces the risk of chronic diseases.

Some examples of senior fitness programs and activities include walking groups, yoga, tai chi, water aerobics, a variety of sports, and strength training. For example, I know at least two men in their sixties (including my doctor) who are active players in local soccer clubs.

Where to find senior fitness activities

Here are some resources you can use to find senior fitness activities:

1. SilverSneakers is a popular fitness program designed for seniors. It’s available to seniors on various Medicare Advantage plans and offers indoor and outdoor classes as well as live online video classes for groups.
   
   
2. The YMCA offers fitness programs and activities for people of all ages, including seniors. You can search for local YMCAs on their website and find fitness classes, swimming, and other activities.
   
   
3. Local parks and recreation centers frequently offer fitness programs for seniors, such as yoga, tai chi, and water aerobics. You can search for local parks and recreation centers online or check with your city or town government for more information.
   
   
4. Many fitness studios offer classes specifically designed for seniors, such as low-impact aerobics or chair yoga. You can search for fitness studios in your area and ask about senior fitness programs.
   
   
5. Senior centers often offer fitness programs and activities, such as chair exercise classes, dance classes, and walking clubs. You can search for senior centers in your area and find out what fitness programs are available.

Taking good care of our bodies helps us live better lives and makes us better partners.

Book Clubs – 4 Ways They Help Your Social Life

Book clubs sound a bit sedentary, but they offer many benefits. They are an effective way for seniors to engage in intellectual stimulation, promote cognitive functioning, expand their knowledge, and socialize with like-minded individuals.

Book clubs provide a sense of community and support, which can be essential for seniors who are struggling with social isolation. These clubs offer plenty of time for repeated social interaction, and they can help seniors build relationships and form new friendships.

Participating in a book club is a chance to connect and engage in meaningful conversations. They’re also a great way for seniors to discover new authors and genres, expanding their knowledge and horizons. And they can be a lot of fun, too!

Where to find local book clubs

There are a few resources you can use to find local book clubs:

1. The first stop in your research is the local library. They host book clubs or have information about book clubs in the community. You can check their website or ask a librarian for more information.
   
   
2. Websites such as Meetup, Facebook, and Goodreads Groups, can help you find local book clubs. You can search for book clubs in your area and connect with members online.
   
   
3. Local bookstores often host book clubs or have information about book clubs in the community. You can check their website or ask a staff member for more information.
   
   
4. Community centers and senior centers might host their own book clubs or have information about book clubs in the local community.
   
   
5. Religious organizations offer clubs that revolve around faith-based or social justice topics.

Garden Clubs – How They Offer Multiple Senior Social Group Opportunities

Gardening is an excellent way for seniors to engage in physical activity, improve their mental well-being, and connect with nature.

Gardening offers many benefits for seniors.

• It can improve physical and mental well-being which reduces the risk of chronic diseases.
• Gardening fosters a sense of purpose and fulfillment.
• Gardening club activities combat social isolation, build relationships, and form new friendships.
• Garden clubs may also organize additional social events, such as potluck dinners, picnics, workshops, community garden projects, or garden parties, which provide even more opportunities for members to socialize and build relationships.

Where to find local garden clubs

Here are some resources you can use to find local garden clubs:

1. Nurseries and garden centers often host or have information about local garden clubs. You can check their website or ask a staff member for more information.
   
2. Websites such as The National Gardening Association and National Garden Clubs provide information about garden clubs in different regions. You can also search for garden clubs on social media platforms such as Facebook or Meetup.
   
3. Community centers may host garden clubs or have information about local clubs. Do a search of their website for club listings.
   
4. Local newspapers or magazines may have listings of local garden clubs. You can check the paper’s website or contact them directly.
   
5. The American Horticultural Society provides a directory of local garden clubs on their website. You can search for clubs by state or region.

Other Senior Group Activities and Hobbies

Here are some other senior activities to consider. Like all the others, they require a commitment to getting out to participate. And like the others, they contribute to seniors overall well-being and satisfaction.

A few examples of some other senior group activities include:

• dance classes
• cooking
• painting clubs
• card games
• sewing clubs
• theater groups

Any one of these are excellent ways to connect with new people, bond over shared interests, and to live with a sense of purpose and fulfillment.

Where to find more senior activities

Here are some resources you can use to find senior physical activities:

1. Many local parks and recreation centers offer physical activities for seniors, such as walking clubs, hiking groups, and other outdoor activities. You can search for local parks and recreation centers online or check with your city or town government for more information.
   
   
2. Senior centers typically offer a range of activities, including many of the ones listed above. You can search for senior centers in your area and find out what physical activities are available.
   
   
3. The National Institute on Aging provides information and resources on activities for seniors, including exercise programs and tips for staying active.
   
   
4. Local hospitals and medical centers offer physical activities for seniors, such as physical therapy or rehabilitation programs. Check the website of your local hospitals and medical centers to see what’s offered.
   
   
5. Meetup, which we’ve already mentioned a few times, is one of the best resources for local groups devoted to any hobby, physical activity, or other area of interest.

Conclusion – Social Groups for Seniors Over 60

Social interaction is an essential aspect of life, and it’s no different for seniors. Social groups for seniors offer opportunities for social interaction that could even lead to finding companionship or a romantic partner.

There is a vast range of social group options available to seniors, including senior centers, community centers, volunteer organizations, religious organizations, Meetup groups, online dating, hobbies, senior fitness activities, book clubs, and garden clubs. Each of these groups offers unique benefits and opportunities for social engagement and companionship.

More social interaction can combat social isolation and build relationships. Social groups can also provide a sense of purpose and fulfillment, which is key for seniors looking for a better quality of life.

Seniors who want to enhance their social lives and potentially find love and companionship will benefit by exploring the many social group options listed above in this article.

For more about doing well as a newly single senior, read this related article on the top dating questions of singles over 60.

If you like this article, spread the love and share it with your friends on social media, using the social buttons below.

Have a social group idea or suggestion? Let us know in the comments below.

1 – Musich, S., Wang, S. S., Slindee, L., Kraemer, S., Yeh, C. S., & Hawkins, K. (2018). The impact of club participation on the health of older adults: A longitudinal study. American Journal of Health Promotion, 32(4), 938-945.

* Some of the links on this page are affiliate links. This means we may get a small commission when someone registers or buys a product. It never changes what you have to pay.