There’s no doubt about it; being an active part of a sisterhood is a wonderful way to banish loneliness after 50. You may also enjoy reading, How to Combat Loneliness After 50, Activities You Can Take Up, and Loneliness and Friendship After 50.

How a Sisterhood Can Banish Loneliness After 50

Women the world over talk and that includes us on this site, honeygood.com, and my private Facebook group, Celebrate Life. In our sisterhood, the exchange of conversation is intoxicating, stimulating, powerful, stirring, rousing, funny and invigorating. When we are together, our loneliness all but disappears.

We are the best of the best when it comes to communication because we love to impart, exchange and share information on all levels. At times we chatter and chit-chat, have serious heart-to-hearts, and yes, sometimes gossip. We connect with one another over the Internet through the art of conversation. Keeping in contact with each other, whether through social media, Skype, or other online platforms, is essential for nurturing our relationships and staying close. When we connect, my heart swells.

Loneliness After 50 is a Public Health Crisis

Many people feel lonely, and this emotional impact can be especially strong during certain times or life transitions.

The topic of loneliness has come up more in more both in my Facebook group and even in my conversation with friends. It’s a real problem; please know that you are not alone if you feel you are experiencing it. It’s important to recognize in this moment if you feel lonely, and to take steps now to address it. I’d like to share with you some of what I’ve learned with my research, and then later, I’ll give you some tips for finding a sisterhood that suits you.

Although it may seem like a personal struggle, loneliness is more than just a fleeting emotion. In fact, it has quietly grown into a significant public health crisis that warrants our attention and compassion and action.

“It’s often talked about as an epidemic. You know, some surveys reveal that around 60 percent of people in the U.S. right now report feeling lonely on a pretty regular basis. And that’s pretty devastating from a public health perspective. Right. This is worse than rates of obesity. This is worse than rates of diabetes.” — Laurie Santos, Yale Psychology Professor

Loneliness isn’t picky…

It doesn’t care about age, gender, or background. Yes, even the so-called picture-perfect women you see on the internet. Even me. We’ve all experienced that deep longing for connection and a sense of belonging. When those needs aren’t met, it can have serious consequences, not just for women over 50, but for society as a whole.

Loneliness after 50 can take a toll on our mental, emotional, and physical well-being. In particular, loneliness can significantly impact our mental health, increasing the risk of depression, anxiety, and lowered self-esteem. Surprisingly, chronic loneliness can be just as harmful to our health as smoking or obesity. It increases the risk of heart disease, dementia, and even premature death.

You can see how loneliness doesn’t just affect us personally—it affects our entire community. It weakens the bonds between people, slows down economic growth, and strains healthcare systems. Plus, it leads to higher healthcare costs since lonely individuals often seek medical help more frequently.

The Impact of Loneliness on Health

Feeling lonely isn’t just an emotional experience—it can have a profound effect on your overall health and well-being. When we experience ongoing feelings of loneliness, it can lead to depression, anxiety, and a dip in self-esteem. But the impact doesn’t stop there. Loneliness can also take a toll on our physical health, increasing the risk of heart disease, dementia, and even shortening our lifespan. It can weaken the immune system, making it harder for our bodies to fight off illness.

That’s why it’s so important to combat loneliness by staying connected with friends, family, and your community. Joining groups, whether in person or online, can help you feel a sense of belonging and purpose. Even simple activities like regular exercise, eating well, and getting enough sleep can help lift your mood and support your mental and physical health. Remember, darling, prioritizing your well-being and reaching out to others isn’t just good for your heart—it’s good for your whole self.

Statistics on Loneliness

Don’t take my word for it; here’s what Yale Psychology Professor, Laurie Santos, had to say about the statistics of loneliness: “It’s often talked about as an epidemic. You know, some surveys reveal that around 60 percent of people in the U.S. right now report feeling lonely on a pretty regular basis. And that’s pretty devastating from a public health perspective. Right. This is worse than rates of obesity. This is worse than rates of diabetes.

Around 60%! Now do you believe me when I tell you that you are not the only one feeling lonely out there? It seems that loneliness itself is a sisterhood.

How to Find a Sisterhood to Fight Feelings of Loneliness After 50

First, I will say that I hope you think of my website, honeygood.com, as well as my private Facebook group, Celebrate Life, as a sisterhood that you are a part of. We welcome you with open arms! Also, if you are a widow, I have another Facebook group dedicated to you, Sisters in Widowhood. It’s co-led by two wonderful women.

Next, I would consider these steps:

• Consider your likes and hobbies and look for online or local in-person groups (Tip: The library is a great place to start! You can access free classes, materials, and community events to expand your knowledge and meet people.)
  • Join a book club—this is a fun and easy way to foster social interaction, meet new friends, and even host gatherings at your house.
  • Reading
  • Knitting, crocheting, quilting (great for hobby retirement or starting a new hobby retirement)
  • Gardening (enjoy fresh air, fun, and maybe ask somebody or volunteers to help with tasks)
  • Walking/hiking (get fresh air and meet people)
  • Birdwatching
  • Flower arranging
• Call up a friend or even family member that you haven’t seen in a while and meet up for coffee (stay connected with old friends and family, even if family live far away—use online tools to keep in touch)
• Volunteer at a local charity that’s close to your heart (a great way to meet people, make new friends, and contribute to your community)
• Start a new hobby (explore new hobby retirement options)
• Take a class (Tip: even if you take an online class, there are often communities associated, or you could find one on Facebook that’s specific to your area of study. Lifelong learning expands your knowledge and keeps you engaged.)
• Take part in free activities or services for seniors—many communities offer free events, lectures, or even loneliness tests.
• Explore local history by visiting museums or historical sites—this is a meaningful way to learn and connect with others.
• Try group activities like dog-walking or joining local meetups—an easy way to get involved and save money through shared experiences, such as dog borrowing schemes.
• Host or attend gatherings at someone’s house, like book club meetings or hobby groups, to build community.
• Make the most of waiting times (in line or at appointments) as opportunities for social interaction—say hello or start a conversation.
• Reflect on moments when you feel lonely and take proactive steps to get joined with groups or activities.

Above all, be daring and put yourself out there! You must put in the work and “climb the stairs” if you really want to make this happen. I know it may seem daunting, but it’s worth it!

Spending Quality Time with Others

One of the most powerful ways to ease feelings of loneliness is to spend quality time with others. Whether you’re joining a book club at your local library, volunteering for a cause you care about, or simply walking your dog and chatting with fellow dog walkers, these moments of connection can make all the difference. Participating in group activities or hobbies with like-minded people opens the door to new friendships and meaningful relationships.

Don’t forget the joy of spending time with family, too. Sharing a meal, playing with grandchildren, or reminiscing with an old friend can help you feel more connected and supported. Community events, group fitness classes, and even online classes are wonderful opportunities to meet new people and nurture your interests. By making the effort to reach out and join in, you’ll find that your world becomes a little brighter and your feelings of loneliness begin to fade.

Discovering New Interests

Retirement and the years after 50 are the perfect time to discover new interests and passions. Exploring a new hobby—whether it’s painting, gardening, or learning to play an instrument—can be a delightful way to combat loneliness. Joining a local group or club that shares your interests not only keeps you engaged but also helps you connect with new people who understand your enthusiasm.

Social media sites and online forums are also fantastic resources for discovering new hobbies and meeting others who share your passions. By trying something new, you’ll keep your mind active and your heart open to new connections. Remember, darling, every new interest is a chance to build friendships, find joy, and create a sense of belonging in your community.

Staying Engaged and Active

Staying engaged and active is a wonderful way to keep loneliness at bay and boost your well-being. Physical activities like walking, yoga, or joining a local fitness group not only improve your physical health but also offer opportunities to meet new people. Getting involved in a community garden, volunteering, or participating in charity events can give you a sense of purpose and connection.

If you prefer to keep your mind occupied, consider taking an online class, learning a new language, or picking up a new hobby. These activities help you stay mentally sharp and provide a sense of accomplishment. By staying active and engaged, you’ll find it easier to form new connections, reduce feelings of loneliness, and enhance your overall health and happiness.

Embracing a New Hobby

Embracing a new hobby is a joyful and effective way to combat loneliness. Whether you’re drawn to painting, cooking, or playing music, a new hobby can bring a sense of purpose and excitement to your daily routine. Joining a group or club that shares your interest is a wonderful way to meet new people and build lasting connections.

Online tutorials and forums make it easy to learn and grow, no matter where you are. Sharing your hobby with friends and family can also strengthen your relationships and create cherished memories. By embracing a new hobby, you’ll stay engaged, connected, and uplifted—turning feelings of loneliness into opportunities for joy, friendship, and well-being.

What Can You Do to Support Your Fellow Sisters

In conclusion, darling, let’s remember that we all have a role to play in addressing this public health crisis of loneliness. Small acts of kindness, like a warm smile or reaching out to someone in need, can have a tremendous impact. Together, we can create a society where loneliness is acknowledged, support is readily available, and everyone feels seen and valued.

Embark on this journey with empathy, compassion, and a commitment to building a more connected and caring world—because we’re in this together.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and need help getting started, I’m here for you. I’m in the process of putting together a workbook on “Climbing the Stairs.” In it, I’ll walk you through the steps of finding out what’s really important to you and breaking down what it takes to accomplish something big, such as taking a stand against your loneliness. I can’t wait to share it with you!

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