Combat Loneliness With These Low-Cost Activities

t's a fact: as we age, it becomes more difficult to stay connected with friends and family. But it doesn't have to be that way! If you're feeling lonely or isolated, here are some low-cost activities you can do to combat it:

1. Volunteer together

Volunteering is a great way to get out of the house and help others. In addition, you can learn new skills, exercise, and work together as a family.

If you want to give back to your community, volunteering is a great way for everyone in the family to do it. You will feel good about what you did and meet new people who also want to make a difference. Here are some ways to get involved:

• Assist at an animal shelter or animal hospital
• Work with children or adults who need assistance such as those from low-income families
• Volunteer to serve meals at a homeless shelter

Learn more: Volunteering in Retirement

2. Visit a museum

Museums are a great way to spend time with your family, stay connected, and have fun. They can also be a source of education and inspiration. Museums allow you to learn more about the world around you, all while having fun!

3. Play board games

Board games are a great way to spend time with family and friends. There are games that can help your grandchildren learn new skills while they're having fun. They can also be used as an icebreaker to get people talking—whether it's at a party or when you're meeting up with new friends for the first time. And board games offer a great opportunity for couples to spend quality time together, whether you're playing cards or Monopoly!

4. Have a picnic in the park

Picnics are a great way to unwind, get some fresh air, and enjoy the company of friends and family. If you’re looking for an inexpensive and easy way to have a good time with your loved ones on a regular basis, consider having picnics at your local park. This activity doesn’t require any special equipment—all you need is some food (and maybe some drinks).

5. Go camping

Camping is a great way for you and your family to spend time together. It's also a great opportunity for you to spend quality time in nature, get away from it all, save money, and get a good night's sleep.

There are many low-cost camping options like state parks that allow tent camping on the cheap. You can head out into the wilds with your family or just go off by yourself to enjoy nature at its finest!

7. Walk your dog

A recent study found that walking your dog is one of the best ways to get exercise. If you're a dog owner, you can also use your walks as an opportunity to interact with other people and pets in the neighborhood. You'll meet new people, exchange tips about pet care, and get some fresh air—all for free!

If you don't have a dog but still want to experience these benefits, most shelters let visitors walk their dogs during certain times of day (usually during lunch).

8. Check out the local library or community center

Libraries often have lots of activities for people who love books and reading. Community centers often offer classes in cooking and crafts, which are great ways to meet new people and make friends.

9. Join a book club

Book clubs are great for many reasons, but one of the best is that they give you an excuse to talk about something interesting. You'll also have a chance to meet new people who share your interests, which can lead to lasting friendships (and maybe even more!).

10. Gardening

Gardening is an activity that can take place anywhere you have access to soil or a garden space—and it's also a great way to bond with others while helping them grow their own food. Plus, if you do it with others, it's a fun way to spend time together.

Read more on gardening: Finding Meaning for Your Life Through Gardening

There are plenty of low-cost activities that will help you reconnect with people who mean the most to you.

Whether it’s with a group of friends, family, or just one other person, staying connected through low-cost activities like these will help you keep your relationships strong while also keeping your budget intact!

Learn more:

• Fun Activities to Get You Moving and Out of the House
• 6 Creative Ways to Make Extra Income in Retirement