As you age, there are so many benefits to having friends you can socialise with.
Have you ever thought that there can be a potential friend right next door? 28% of seniors say that community groups, such as those within their neighbourhood, play an important role in their life.
In this blog post, we’ll explore some great benefits of befriending your neighbour.
1. Socialisation
In older age, socialisation contributes greatly to both physical and mental health.
Being social benefits the likes of your self-esteem, your sleep, and your memory. You’ll also be at decreased risk for illness, heart problems, high blood pressure, dementia, depression, and anxiety.
Intergenerational friendships can be mutually beneficial. Socialising with your neighbour will stimulate your brain and give you someone to pass down life lessons, wisdom, and stories to.
Meanwhile, your friendship can help your younger neighbour learn to embrace ageing and to break down their stereotypes about older people.
2. Learning from the younger generation
While wisdom comes with age, the younger generation still has a lot to teach us.
For example, your younger neighbour may give you some insight into smartphones and technology, which enables you to stay connected with your own family and friends.
3. Help with small jobs
As we age, our abilities naturally change. It’s handy to have someone next door who would be happy to do small jobs, such as changing out a lightbulb or putting away groceries.
Though your friendly neighbour will probably not expect anything of you in return for these tasks, good deeds like this are often in exchange for your friendship and kindness.
4. Carpooling and shopping
While of course your neighbour is not your chauffeur or your personal shopper, your neighbour may be happy to pick up something for you on their trip to the grocery shop.
You could also carpool with them to events like weekly religious services or a local community meeting. Carpooling together is an opportunity to have conversations or to introduce each other to your favourite music.
Your younger neighbour is likely to feel good about helping, while for you, learning to ask for help is an important skill.
5. In case of emergencies
In case of a fall or any other emergency, it would be extremely handy to have someone just next door to help.
Offer your name and number in exchange for your neighbour’s, so that both of you can contact the other in the event of an emergency.
6. Exchanging meals and recipes
Whether it’s a cultural dish or a secret family recipe, cooking for someone else is sure to warm the heart. Bringing over a meal is a lovely way to introduce yourself to your neighbour and spark up a friendship.
Exchanging meals and recipes with a neighbour is a perfect bonding activity that will teach you new dishes and give you a chance to chat over mealtime.
7. Gets you outside more
Even if it’s just sitting on your front porch, being outside creates opportunities for social interaction – especially with your neighbours.
Being friends with those living around you can get you outdoors more for your daily chats or to attend events that your neighbours may start inviting you to.
Spending time outdoors has been shown to increase confidence in seniors, and one of the reasons is the greater exposure to social interactions.
Australia's annual Neighbour Day occurs at the end of every March. It's the perfect excuse to introduce yourself to your neighbours and to form new friendships.
We offer some ideas on ways to meet your neighbours in our blog post, 5 Ways to Build Community in Your Neighbourhood.
Relationships Australia Queensland’s Senior Social Connection Program helps older Queenslanders in Sunshine Coast and Gympie to stay connected.
If you or an older person you know is feeling lonely or socially isolated, our Senior Relationships Services are here to help. You can learn more about our Senior Social Connection Program here, or call 1300 063 232 to make an appointment.