Living Well After 60

In my last couple of articles, we have talked about loneliness and how it affects so many people, especially as we get older. I have heard from people who have lost their spouses, whose children live far away, or who simply don’t have the same circle of friends they once had. And I keep thinking, what can we do to help?

There really are quite a few things happening right here on Marco Island that give us an opportunity to get out, meet people, and enjoy ourselves. Sometimes we just need someone to remind us what’s available or, better yet, invite us to come along.

One thing you might not have considered is getting a part-time job. I know, I know, many of us have worked our entire lives and have no desire to go back to work! But think about it for a minute. Places like Publix, Ace Hardware, Winn-Dixie, the Marriott, and Hilton often have part-time positions, some with flexible hours. You might work just a few hours a week, meet some interesting people, have a reason to get out of the house, and even earn a little extra money. For some people, having a schedule and feeling needed can make a real difference.

Another opportunity near and dear to my heart is Lunch with Friends. This program has been going on for more than nine years, and we meet on the third Wednesday of every month at Marco Lutheran Church. We have a wonderful free lunch, entertainment, door prizes, and usually quite a few laughs. But what I enjoy most is watching people make new friends. We have people who came the first time knowing no one and now look forward to seeing their friends each month. That is really what this luncheon is all about.

Our next luncheon is Wednesday, October 21, 2026, and doors open at 11:00 AM. There is absolutely no charge. To make a reservation, email lunchwithfriendsmarco@gmail.com or call 706-566-8532. If you need transportation, please mention that when making your reservation so we can help arrange a ride. And please, don’t hesitate to come by yourself. You won’t be alone for long!

Now, how about a little BINGO? Both the Jewish Community Center and San Marco Catholic Church have BINGO evenings, and they even provide supper.

The Jewish Community Center has BINGO every Monday evening through May. Doors open at 5:00 PM, Bonanza is posted at 5:30 PM, and games begin at 6:30 PM. The cost is $20 for a two-pack or $27 for a three-pack, with additional pull tabs available. Supper is complimentary.

San Marco Catholic Church has BINGO every Thursday from October 15 through November 19, 2026. Doors open at 5:00 PM, and games begin at 6:30 PM. The cost is $20, which also includes supper.

What a nice way to spend an evening: enjoy a meal, visit with others, and maybe even win a little money!

Marco Lutheran Church also has a luncheon series, with a free luncheon scheduled for February 2, 2027, at 11:00 AM. If you would like more information, call 239-394-0332.

And don’t forget about our Marco Island YMCA and Mackle Park. Both have activities for those of us over 65. You don’t have to be in great shape or particularly talented to participate. Take a look at their schedules and see if there is something you might enjoy. You may discover an activity you never thought you would like, along with some new friends.

I know it isn’t always easy to walk into a room where you don’t know anyone. I think most of us have felt that way at one time or another. I know I often do. I have to elect to do one brave thing a day. But I also know that once we make the effort, we are usually glad we did.

There is one more thing I would like to ask. If you know someone who lives alone, has recently lost a spouse, or doesn’t get out much anymore, please think about inviting them to one of these activities. Maybe they no longer drive and just need a ride. Maybe they are shy about going alone. Or maybe no one has thought to ask them.

I have said before that loneliness is a form of social poverty, and I really believe that. We spend a great deal of time helping people who need food, clothing, and other necessities, but we also need to remember those who simply need friendship and companionship.

We are fortunate to live in a community with so many people willing to organize activities and welcome others. Let’s take advantage of these opportunities and, even more importantly, let’s make sure our neighbors know about them.

So, here’s my suggestion for this month. Find one thing on this list that interests you, put it on your calendar, and go. Better yet, take someone with you.

You might be surprised how much fun you have, and you just might make someone’s day a little brighter.

And isn’t that what being a good neighbor is all about?