But one of the most rewarding parts of choosing life in an assisted living community like Bethesda Gardens in Thornton, Colorado, is the opportunity to make new friends. Not sure how to make yourself part of the community? Get some tips in our guide below.

Give Yourself Permission to Start Slowly

Start with the understanding that everyone moves socially at a different pace and you don't need to become best buddies with someone the first week in your new home. You may have some nerves and anxiety, and jumping into the proverbial deep end of friendship-making could increase those worries. Instead, start small by smiling at those around you, waving to your neighbors and showing up for activities in the community.

Ways to Naturally Meet Others at an Assisted Living Community Like Bethesda Gardens

Here are some specific tips you can use to meet others at assisted living communities like ours.

Attend Events and Meals

One of the easiest ways to meet people is by showing up regularly to community meals and planned events. Bethesda Gardens in Thornton offers an activity calendar full of options. You can attend themed dinners, devotional times, picnics, exercise groups and crafting times.

When you pull up a chair at the dining table or sit in on a Bible study, you’ll find friendly faces and natural chances to introduce yourself. Sharing a meal, devotional or craft is a relaxed, low-pressure way to be seen and heard, paving the way for smiles, small talk and your first friendships in a new location.

Spend Time in Common Areas

Casual connection often happens in common spaces around a community. Whether you're enjoying a cozy game room with chess and checkers, a sunny morning in the lounge or active exercise classes, shared spots invite conversation.

You might grab a magazine, join someone’s knitting circle or simply chat over coffee in a sitting area. These moments help you build familiarity. You might note, "Oh, you’re the one always here at 10 am, too," before asking questions about interests, family or routines.

Start Conversations

Starting conversations often comes naturally in these shared places. Ask a neighbor about their favorite activity or what they enjoy most on the community calendar. You could mention the devotional meeting you’re planning to attend and ask if they plan to join too. Ask about someone's favorite part of living in the community and what they recommend you do — in return, you might get an invite to join them in an activity.

Being the first to make contact can be daunting. However, when you show genuine kindness and interest in someone, they're likely to respond in turn. And on the rare occasions someone doesn't, you can chalk it up to them having a bad day or not being someone you want to invest a lot of time in anyway.

Invite Others to Do Things

Once you've met a few people, take the initiative and make a simple plan. Ask if someone wants to join you for a walk outside or chat over tea in the lounge. Suggest attending a game night or devotional together.

You can also have your own events and gatherings. You might host a small card game, prayer circle or movie afternoon in your apartment or a common area in the community.

Remember that inviting someone to go with you to something is like saying, “I’d like to spend time with you.” They may be flattered, and relationships often grow faster when you're willing to be the one opening those doors.

Know That Friendship Can Take Time to Build

Strong friendships often grow slowly, and that’s okay. It takes time to understand each other’s stories, preferences and personalities. You may say hello when passing in the halls for a few days before the conversation naturally deepens. The key is consistency: Keep showing up, being friendly and sharing small moments. Even routine gestures, such as smiling in the hallway or offering a seat at a meal, can help build trust with someone else.

Friendship isn’t a sprint. It’s a meandering journey that can be enjoyable if you're willing to spend the time on it.

As you consider the social implications of this next life chapter, think about how your living situation may impact your ability to make friends. Look for communities that offer vibrant lifestyles and opportunities to build long-lasting and sincere relationships.

‍