You’ve decided that a move to a senior living community will give you the vibrant lifestyle you have always wanted and the luxury amenities that will make wellness even more convenient. You’re excited to pick a floor plan for your new home and can’t help but daydream about what you’ll do with all of your newly found time now that you don’t have to worry about landscaping, grocery shopping, and other household tasks.

However, you might be wondering how you will fit in among your new neighbors. Or, you might be feeling anxious about meeting new people and making new friends. Here’s the good news: at Ciel Senior Living communities, we see new residents move in and simply thrive in their new homes thanks to welcoming neighbors who are always there to lend a hand. Here are a few tips for making new connections.

Say Hello

Chances are, your new neighbors are already anticipating your arrival! Move-in days are exciting for the entire community and you might find that other residents are stopping by to greet you before any of your boxes are unpacked. Even though moving can be stressful, take time to say hello and introduce yourself to anyone who stops by to say hello. The more familiar faces you can establish, the more comfortable you’ll feel in your new community.

Sit Somewhere New at Meals

Meals are a cornerstone of the resident experience at any Ciel Senior Living community! You can meet a lot of new people at breakfast, lunch, or dinner by choosing to dine in the dining room or onsite restaurants. Try heading to meals a little early to socialize with others and don’t be afraid to ask other residents for their meal recommendations! It’s a great way to strike up a conversation and it gives you a good idea of what to order.

Try Attending Events

Another way to meet new friends is to share an experience together. Your senior living community features an event calendar full of daily opportunities ranging from yoga classes to walking clubs to book discussions. Choose a few that look interesting and a few that are new to you; you’ll meet new people every time you choose to attend.

Roll Out a Welcome Mat

If you feel comfortable, invite your neighbors for coffee in your new home. While you can’t squeeze everyone in the community into your home, you can choose to invite a few at a time in order to get to know them. It doesn’t have to be fancy to be welcoming – a simple pot of coffee and cookies are the perfect start to new friendships.

Use Shared Spaces

Senior living communities are designed to boost social opportunities among residents. One way the community does this is by having plenty of shared spaces for residents to use. Instead of reading your newspaper in your apartment, consider taking it down to the community library. Or, watch your favorite team play in the community’s living room. You’ll meet new people who share a similar interest.

Ask for Help

Finally, if you are struggling feeling connected to your new neighbors, ask for help from the community staff. At Ciel Senior Living communities, our team members are there to help make connections between residents and to provide encouragement or guidance to any resident who is feeling lonely.

Ready to experience an event or meal at one of our communities? We’d love to schedule something so that you can get a taste of what life is like in any of our communities. Contact a community near you to get started.