Staying socially active and keeping up with friends later in life is vital. Social connections have positive impacts on both your physical and mental health.
Being older comes with obstacles that may make it difficult to make and maintain social connections.
Here are some free social opportunities in Southeast Queensland for seniors in their 60s and older:
Seniors Morning Tea
Social relationships are critical for our mental and physical health. Research shows that seniors who stay social are at decreased risk for illness, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
Connecting with similar-aged people can help you to socialise and make friends.
The Senior Social Connection Program (SSCP) hosts a free weekly Seniors Morning Tea at the Gympie Health Hub. Please call 1300 063 232 to confirm dates and times.
Seniors Cuppa and Conversations
Joining a social group for those in their 60s and older can help you to get back out there and make new friends.
In older age, socialising significantly decreases the risk for depression, anxiety, and dementia.
Friday Cuppa and Conversations is a free fortnightly event for seniors.
The group meets on Thursdays at the Nambour Community Centre and on Fridays at the Millwell Road Community Centre.
Please call the SSCP at 1300 063 232 to confirm dates and times.
Community Centres
Community centres offer a wide range of free groups for seniors. Some community centres offer specific groups for seniors who are culturally diverse, veterans, or who have disabilities, for example.
You can find free seniors groups hosted by community centres on:
You can also ask your local community centre about senior social groups. If they don’t have one, they may know of another organisation who hosts a senior social group near you.
Aged Care Visitor Scheme
The Aged Care Volunteer Visitors Scheme (ACVVS) is a federally funded program that provides friendship to older people through volunteer visitors.
The ACVVS particularly caters to seniors who are socially isolated. Reasons for social isolation may include coming from a culturally diverse background, living in a remote location, or having a disability.
You can learn more about the ACVVS on the Australian Government website here.
You can sign up to request a volunteer visitor through the ACVVS here.
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. Our experienced counsellors can help you explore your concerns and possible solutions in a safe and supportive environment.
You can learn more about our Senior Social Connection Program here, or call 1300 063 232 to make an appointment.