How to Make Friends at 50

How to Make Friends at 50
Photo Credit middle aged couple smiling image by Brett Mulcahy from Fotolia.com

If you've hit middle age and feel like something is missing from your life, meeting some new friends may be just what you need. Whether you want people to go to the theater with, dinner party companions or friends you can chat with in times of need, there are many ways to find the friends you have in mind. Don't let your age stand in your way. Fifty is the new 40, as they say, and there are plenty of places to meet like-minded 50-year-olds for friendship and fun.

Step 1

Join a club. Clubs are a great way to meet people with similar interests. Whatever you enjoy, whether it's model trains, baking or fishing, there are sure to be clubs in your area or the nearest big city. Do an Internet search for your hobby and location to find a club that matches your interests in your area.

Step 2

Volunteer. A great way to meet like-minded people is to volunteer for a cause about which you are passionate. Plus, if you are retired, you'll have plenty of time to volunteer and will meet other retired people.

Step 3

Join online groups. Sign up on sites such as Meetup.com to meet people in your age range who are also looking to meet friends. Social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook are also a great way to meet friends and reconnect with old friends with whom you've lost touch.

Step 4

Attend community events. Meet the people in your neighborhood by participating in community garage sales, barbecues and picnics. You can also attend local civic group or church events to meet people.

Step 5

Join a singles club for middle-aged people, if you are single. Singles groups are a great way to meet people who are interested in making friends and finding activity partners.

Step 6

Choose a place to hang out in your neighborhood. Go to a coffee shop, bakery, library, bookstore or shop in your area that you like. Become a regular customer and stay and chat, browse or read, and you'll be sure to meet people eventually.

Tips and Warnings

  • Be friendly, open-minded and approachable. If you are open to meeting other people and trying new things, you'll be able to make friends more quickly. Sometimes the best part about meeting new friends is getting to try new activities and learning about new places.
  • Be wary of joining any group that asks for money upfront without giving you details or letting you try out the group first, as it could be a scam (especially it if's online).

References

Article reviewed by Jennifer S Last updated on: Aug 24, 2010

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