You might not realize it, but socializing with others is good for you. That can be hard to visualize – and bring to life! – in the middle of a harsh winter and the turbulent times we’re all experiencing. Dipping outside of your comfort zone and meeting new people may sound intimidating, but it’s more important than ever, especially as we age.

Read on for hints to help you get started.

Connect for your health
Being socially isolated and lonely can harm your health. The statistics are shocking – the increased risk of death from social isolation and loneliness is similar to smoking 15 cigarettes a day.

Loneliness can put you at increased risk of developing chronic illnesses like diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure. In older adults, being lonely or socially isolated can hurt brain health, elevating the risk for depression, anxiety and cognitive decline.

Start small
There’s no easy fix to for social isolation and loneliness, but there are things you can do to feel more connected to others.

Take up a new (or old) hobby that you can enjoy with other people; maybe that’s trying pickle ball, playing cards (whether that’s bridge or Skip-bo), joining a book club, or taking up rug hooking, knitting or karate. Check out the municipal recreation programs in your area – they’re affordable and there’s usually a range of activities: cooking classes, painting, yoga, woodworking, you name it!

Reach out for support
If you or a loved one are living with a disability or a chronic health issue that makes it hard to get out and meet others, such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia, there may be special programs you can tap into for connection and support. There is also support available for caregivers. To find out what’s available in your area, call 2-1-1 or visit the 211 Nova Scotia website.

Every interaction matters
Having strong bonds with others is key to maintaining your mental health. You might think that only means having close relationships with friends and family. But research shows that we also benefit from the short, passing interactions we have with strangers. Plucking up the courage to make small talk while you wait in line can lift your mood and boost your trust in others. It all counts!

Build your community
Connecting with other people doesn’t just support your physical and mental health – it can also strengthen and nurture the health of your community.

Visit your local library, recreation centre, café or other community meeting spot and see what’s shaking. You’ll learn about upcoming events like cultural workshops, panel discussions and live music. Many events are free and you’ll meet new people and discover new pursuits, groups or causes that you can take part in. It might even inspire you to volunteer your time with these organizations for future events – a win-win for you and your community.

Support local businesses
If you’re able to do so, take it a step further and consider supporting local businesses and creative people in your area – visit a craft sale, attend a book launch at a local book store, watch a local theatre performance, become a regular at your local famers’ market and start supporting local farmers and producers.

This will help you develop deeper connections with people in your community, supporting their work and your community in the process. Over time, being more connected to the people around you will help you feel better about yourself.

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