A major concern as we age is being alone and isolated from the world. Whether physical or emotional reasons keep us house-bound, it’s not easy to break out of the pattern of staying in.

Studies have shown a rise in depression in adults over 60, and without intervention, there’s a heightened risk of death.

Pulling oneself out of loneliness is difficult at any age, but older people tend to reject outside help more than others. No one wants to feel dependent on anyone else, and that pride can lead to isolation. The simple truth is that the usual social connections we have in younger life end up changing as we get older. We simply don’t have the same amount of friends we used to have, and there are fewer reasons to outwardly engage with the world. Creating new connections can feel overwhelming and difficult, but it’s vitally important that we make the effort.

Joining a website like Meetup.com is one way to extend yourself into your community. There are groups for every age spanning a wide variety of interests, offering ample opportunities to get out of the house and meet new people. Shared interests spark connections, and that can become a lifeline for us later in life. Most communities also have a Senior Center or a Parks and Recreation Department that offer programs specifically directed at seniors. These activities can create a sense of belonging and purpose in their daily lives.

There are also resources for seniors who are housebound due to illness or injury. Organizations like Elder Helpers offer home visits from volunteers of all ages. These visits grow into deeply bonded friendships, giving the residents something to look forward to and easing the loneliness that can often accompany a long-term illness. Other organizations like AARP and the Gerontological Society of America are hoping to help create more understanding of isolation and loneliness, and help lonely seniors build more social connections. Thanks to recent innovations in modern technology, there are robot companion pets designed to keep you company without the mess of an actual dog or cat. They’re incredibly lifelike and ease the feeling of solitude.

There is also the option of relocating to an active senior community where the residents can not only take advantage of all kinds of programs and excursions, but also forge new friendships. Taking a tour of a facility can help make the decision to relocate even easier, removing any hesitance one might have about making such a change.