Making new friends after 50 can feel challenging, but it’s absolutely possible and often deeply rewarding. At this stage in life, many people find themselves craving deeper connection, especially after major life shifts like retirement, relocation, or changes in family dynamics. Here’s how to start rebuilding your social circle.
Find Your People Through Shared Passions

Nothing connects people faster than a common interest. When Joan from Canada joined Stitch‘s local gardening club last spring, she found herself in the company of fellow plant lovers who swapped seeds, stories, and even weekend potluck plans. Whether you’re into hiking, painting, bridge nights or beginner’s Spanish, there’s almost certainly a Stitch group waiting for you.
Where to look for interest groups:
Volunteering: Friendship with Purpose
Volunteering supports you in two ways: you get to give back AND meet compassionate, like‑minded people. According to AARP, 35% of adults over 50 report that volunteering brings them their greatest sense of purpose. So why not start there? From mentoring high‑schoolers to delivering meals, you’ll find that working side-by-side for a cause is one of the quickest ways to forge bonds.
You can meet people interested in volunteering and organizing volunteer activities together on Stitch.

Use Friendship Apps (not just Dating Apps!)
You’ve heard of dating apps, but did you know there are apps built solely for finding pals?
- Bumble has a BFF mode (best friends forever) where people look to meet new friends.
- Friender is designed to let you specify your friendship goals.
- Stitch has been built to create connection among people over 50.
These online apps provide an easy way to break the ice before meeting to go to a real-world event or catching up over a real-life coffee.
They are especially helpful if you’ve recently moved to a new area.
Reconnect with Old Friends
It takes some courage, but sometimes the best new friend is an old one you’ve lost touch with. A simple “I was thinking about that road trip – how have you been?” can kick‑start a renewed friendship. Don’t let fear of awkwardness hold you back, many friends are just waiting for someone to reach out.
Even if distance separates you, video calls can do wonders to help you catch up and reconnect.

Say Yes More Often
Sometimes new friendships begin when you push past hesitation. When your neighbor mentions a weekend BBQ or a coworker suggests a book club, push past that little voice of doubt and accept. You never know which “yes” will blossom into a weekly coffee date or a new travel buddy. As one Stitch member, Carlos, put it:
“I almost said no to that first board‑game night, but now I can’t imagine my Thursdays without it.”
Carlos (Stitch Member)
Be Honest and Intentional
People appreciate honesty and vulnerability when you’re looking for something deeper than passing acquaintances. Many others are in the same boat, just waiting for someone to make the first friendship move.
It’s okay to be upfront:
“I’ve been looking to expand my social circle. Would you be interested in going for a walk this week?”
You’ll be surprised how often people feel the same way.

Join Online Communities
If in-person connection feels tough, start online. There are Facebook groups and forums for people over 50 looking to build friendships around shared life experiences, challenges, and goals. Stitch is specifically designed to help people over 50 connect over shared interests, groups, discussions and real-world events.
Why It Matters
Loneliness isn’t just a feeling, it carries real health risks. According to a 2023 study by the National Institute on Aging, one in three older adults report persistent loneliness, which can affect sleep, mood, and even heart health. Building friendships isn’t a luxury, it’s a vital part of thriving in midlife and beyond.

Final Thought
Friendship after 50 isn’t about numbers. It’s about quality, authenticity, and shared joy. It might take a bit of courage, but new connections can transform your day-to-day life in meaningful ways.

Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Stitch, we’ve seen hundreds of members just like you discover lasting friendships through social events and local groups. Whether you’re ready for a walking meetup, a book club, or a weekend getaway, you deserve the joy and support that come from true companionship.
Join us at your next local Stitch event and see how quickly a room full of strangers can become your new friends.