Active Adult Communities

2/18/2015 | By Terri L. Jones

How to Meet People in Richmond, VA

You’re no longer going to work each day. You may have lost your spouse. Maybe you’re not even driving anymore. As you get older, you just don’t encounter as many people in your daily life anymore and that resulting decline in social interaction not only makes life a whole lot less fun, but it also isn’t good for you emotionally, mentally or physically.

Whether you’re just looking for a buddy for coffee or someone with whom to share your life, here are a few new ideas for connecting with people your own age in Richmond, VA.

Take a Class

Gain a skill and mingle with new friends! Richmond has plenty of community resources for classes and activities: from art classes, dance lessons, field trips – and so, so much more!

Learn the ukulele at the Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen; take a pottery course at the Visual Arts Center; brush up on floral design at Studio Two Three … there are many ways to get involved, while also meeting the locals!

Find our round-up of nearby classes here!

The Senior Center of Greater Richmond

This is a great way to meet people in Richmond!

With the mission of enhancing the wellness and quality of life of senior adults, this membership organization regularly offers a whole calendar of programs for seniors. So, on any given day, you might find a yoga class happening, a group heading to D.C. for the day, or a group of new friends having lunch. Membership required.

SeniorCenterofGreaterRichmond.org

Meetup Groups

Meetup.com has been around for years; this simple site works to connect locals all over with similar hobbies and interests. There are dozens, if not hundreds, of local Meetup groups to try out; from book clubs, to knitting circles, to coffee lovers, and more. Plus, most of them are completely free and require no commitment at all!

Meetup.com for locals over 50!

County and City Programs

The Parks & Recreation division of most municipalities hosts a plethora of senior-oriented programs, classes, sports and clubs for their citizens. For example, if you live in County of Henrico, you can enter your best photos in the 50+ Photography Contest; attend a free blood pressure and cholesterol screening; or join a bridge club or bowling league. Registration required.

Henrico.us/Services/Seniors

Senior Connections Friendship Cafes

Seniors can enjoy a nutritious midday meal at these neighborhood gathering places. Additionally, they can also meet new friends, exercise, go on field trips and benefit from nutrition education and other enrichment programs. Likewise, an application is required.

Get more information about how to meet people in Richmond Senior Connections Friendship Cafés here!

Dating Websites

Moreover, if you think dating websites are for young folks, think again! People over 60 are the fastest growing demographic participating in online dating, as evidenced by all the dating sites catering to seniors, including AARP, SeniorPeopleMeet or OurTime. Dating sites are a great way to meet people in Richmond. You might encounter the love of your life – or at the very least, make a few new friends from the experience. Registration required.

Relocate to a New Community

Considering downsizing and moving to a senior living community? Richmond has plenty of CCRCs (continuing care retirement communities) that residents love!

Terri L. Jones

Terri L. Jones has been writing educational and informative topics for the senior industry for over ten years, and is a frequent and longtime contributor to Seniors Guide.

Terri Jones