Retirement is a chance to relax, travel, and spend more time doing the things you love. But for many, it can also bring a shift in routine that means less social interaction.

According to Age UK, around 270,000 older people in England go an entire week without speaking to friends or family. And those who are socially isolated are far more likely to feel lonely, which, in turn, can take a toll on both physical and mental health.

Indeed, loneliness has been linked to a:

• 29% increased risk of heart disease
• 32% rise in stroke risk
• 25% greater chance of developing dementia.

Thankfully, 9 to 15 June 2025 is Loneliness Awareness Week. So, continue reading to discover six practical ways to fight off isolation in the next phase of your life.

1. Join a local club or group

Clubs and other groups are a practical way to meet people with similar passions. This might be a local choir, a walking group, or a book club.

Social groups give you structure, motivation, and, most importantly, company.

They don’t have to mean a significant commitment, either. You can try a few different groups before settling on what feels right. You may even find new friendships that outlast the hobby itself!

It’s worth starting at your local community centre or library to find the clubs and groups that suit you.

2. Spend time volunteering

Volunteering is perhaps one of the most rewarding ways to stay active and social in retirement.

Giving your time to a cause you care about can help others, while providing a sense of purpose. It might also bring some much-needed structure and meaning to your week.

Whether you’re helping in a charity shop, supporting a food bank, or even mentoring young people, you’re likely to meet a wide variety of people along the way.

It could also present an opportunity to use, or rediscover, skills you may not have employed for years.

3. Reach out to old friends for a catch-up

Rather than searching for new connections, you might prefer to spend your time rekindling old ones.

If there’s someone you haven’t spoken to in a while, it’s worth reaching out to them. This could be an old colleague, neighbour, or a school friend.

A quick message, phone call, or even a letter could quickly result in you making plans with them to reconnect.

This might seem nerve-wracking at first but you might find they’re longing for the company and connection themselves.

4. Adopt a four-legged friend

Pets are fantastic company, especially if you live alone.

Dogs, in particular, can bring companionship a sense of routine. You’ll a reason to head outside and meet fellow dog walkers and you’ll get plenty of exercise too, further boosting your physical and mental wellbeing.

Of course, owning a pet is a big commitment, so if full-time care isn’t right for you, you could consider volunteering at a local animal shelter or joining schemes like “BorrowMyDoggy”, where you can walk or look after someone else’s pet occasionally.

5. Try your hand at a new hobby

Retirement is the perfect time to try something new, and hobbies can be a great way to stay mentally engaged and meet new people.

You may want to think about something you’ve always wanted to try, whether that’s painting, photography or learning a language. There are likely community classes and online groups for just about everything these days.

Even if you’re a complete beginner, it’s still worth giving it a go. Many people are in the same boat and looking to meet others, too.

6. Seek professional support

Sometimes, even though you’re trying your hardest to make new connections, loneliness can be incredibly overwhelming.

If you feel this way and are struggling, it’s important to remember that help is available and not to struggle in silence.

Your GP could be a wise place to start, as they could point you in the direction of local support services, counselling, or group sessions. Some organisations, such as Age UK, also offer helplines and befriending services that could help improve your mood in the short term.

It’s vital to note that there’s no shame in asking for help, and taking that first step towards professional help can make a significant difference to your emotional and physical wellbeing.

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We could help you manage your finances throughout retirement so you can focus more on your mental and physical wellbeing.

Contact us now to find out how our Chartered financial planners can help.