Six Key Connections Retirees Should Foster to Overcome Loneliness

Durban – While ageing naturally involves a reduction in physical strength, one of the most significant health risks can stem from feelings of loneliness.

Studies indicate that maintaining community connections among retirees can lower the risk of severe health problems and enhance mental wellness.

In fact, there are “Six Points of Connection” that have been outlined as practical methods for individuals to foster meaningful relationships and lead a more fulfilling life.

These points, identified by the non-profit organization The US Chamber of Connection, serve as a checklist for strengthening social ties.

The six points are grounded in thorough research, addressing fundamental aspects of social connection such as safety, emotional bonds, overcoming social barriers, and civic involvement.

“In retirement, establishing and nurturing these connections is even more crucial. However, as people age, families often move away, making it more challenging to feel connected,” explains Barto van der Merwe, Managing Director of Renishaw Property Developments, which features the mature lifestyle village Renishaw Hills.

“We have discovered that retirement communities designed with active and communal living in mind significantly enhance these Six Points of Connection compared to living in a standalone home.

“In secure estates, retirees can enjoy their privacy while also experiencing connections through community events, charitable initiatives, outdoor activities, and engagements tailored to their interests.”

What are the 6 Points of Connection

1. Neighbour Emergency Contact

Having a neighbour to depend on during emergencies is essential for personal safety and for cultivating safer, more connected communities. In a retirement community, while homes provide privacy, the estate’s security promotes increased social interaction. Neighbours often look out for each other out of genuine care.

2. Community of Identity

Individuals feel most at ease and understood when they belong to a community with a shared identity. This feeling of connection is encouraged at retirement estates through various hobby groups, outdoor activities, and civic-minded organizations that unite like-minded individuals.

3. One-on-One Weekly Social Interactions

To maintain emotional well-being, individuals need at least two meaningful social interactions each week outside of home or work. Retirees living alone risk missing these interactions; hence, retirement estates are beneficial. There are always events scheduled weekly and monthly, and the community of friends is eager to welcome newcomers.

4. Third Place

Another crucial aspect of emotional well-being is having a “third place” for social interactions beyond home or work. This could be a café, park, gym, or community center where friends can gather, try new activities, or simply enjoy a conversation over coffee. Retirement estates are designed around such communal spaces, offering this essential ‘third place’.

5. Active Community

A community of like-minded individuals is advantageous, but it’s equally important to find a group that shares common passions or interests. This offers retirees the chance to connect with others across social, cultural, or economic boundaries through mutual hobbies or activities.

6. Community Service

Lastly, volunteering has been shown to lower stress, improve well-being, and enhance mental health. Retirement estates provide various community service opportunities that utilize residents’ skills. From crafting to supporting local entrepreneurs or raising funds for animal shelters, community service helps to strengthen society.

Renishaw Hills: Keeping Residents Connected!

Situated in Scottburgh on the KZN South Coast within the expansive 1,300-hectare Renishaw Coastal Precinct, Renishaw Hills is a mature lifestyle village meticulously designed around these principles. More than just an active retirement community, Renishaw Hills stands as a premier lifestyle estate for individuals over 50, offering vibrant living.

This elite lifestyle destination provides:

• Outstanding amenities, communal spaces, and a new bowls green currently being constructed.
• Over 20 active clubs for various hobbies and interests, including the Granny Grommets!
• Charitable initiatives such as Projects with a Purpose.
• Reasonable levies that cover exterior maintenance, garden services, waste collection, postal services, fiber-optic WiFi, 24/7 security, and healthcare options.
• Reliable water security, featuring an independent water supply for uninterrupted access.
• A location celebrated for its incredible natural attributes, including superb beaches—some of which are Blue Flag—and lush coastal forests, alongside extensive mountain biking and hiking trails.

Get in touch

For further information about Renishaw Hills or to schedule a tour, reach out to Kelly at 064 198 2693, email sales@renishawhills.co.za, or visit www.renishawhills.co.za.

Explore the available units at Renishaw Hills: https://renishawhills.co.za/available-units/.