Let’s talk about something many wouldn’t consider a Herculean task, yet it’s something we all strive for:

Staying connected with family and friends as we move into our 60s and beyond.

You’ve seen those folks, right?

The ones who, despite advancing years, seem to be in the thick of things, always surrounded by loved ones, always in the loop.

It’s not luck or coincidence that keeps them there. It’s not even a secret.

These people have simply adopted certain habits that help them maintain these precious bonds.

Now let’s dive into what these habits are that keep these individuals so well-connected in their later years.

1) They make communication a priority

Communication is the bedrock of every relationship, be it familial, platonic or romantic.

Those who stay connected well into their later years have understood this fundamental truth.

They don’t wait for birthdays or holidays to check in with their loved ones. No, they’re reaching out on a regular basis.

A quick phone call, a simple text message or even an email to say “thinking of you” goes a long way in maintaining connections.

They know that the key to staying connected is not about grand gestures but about consistent, meaningful communication.

And it’s not just about talking or checking in. It’s about listening too.

They’re genuinely interested in what’s happening in the lives of their loved ones and this interest keeps them involved and connected.

2) They embrace technology

Technology has been a game changer in keeping us connected. 

Let me share my personal experience here. My Grandma Edith is in her late 80s and she is not just surviving but thriving in the tech world.

She’s embraced social media, and she’s quite a pro at video calling.

Every Sunday, like clockwork, we have our virtual family get-together.

And guess who is the most enthusiastic participant? Yes, you guessed it right – Grandma Edith!

She doesn’t let distance or physical limitations get in her way of staying connected.

She’s learned to use technology to her advantage and keeps herself in the loop.

3) They understand the value of quality time

There’s a well-known quote by Maya Angelou that goes, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”

What Angelou so wisely points out here is the irreplaceable value of quality time in our relationships.

Those who manage to maintain their connections as they age, they get this.

They understand that it’s not just about being present, it’s about being present in a meaningful way.

They make an effort to spend quality time with their loved ones, making sure that every interaction counts.

Be it a leisurely lunch, a shared hobby or even just a quiet chat over coffee – they make these moments matter.

They don’t just spend time, they invest time.

And this investment pays off in the form of strong bonds and lasting memories.

4) They keep traditions alive

Traditions play a key role in fostering a sense of belonging and continuity.

Did you know that according to a study conducted by Emory University, children who know a lot about their family history tend to be more resilient and better able to handle stress?

This is because being aware of their family’s history gives them a sense of being part of something larger than themselves.

The same principle applies to our older folks as well.

Those who stay connected with their family and friends have often been the torchbearers of family traditions and rituals. 

By keeping these traditions alive, they create frequent opportunities for everyone to come together, thereby strengthening the bond.

Be it holiday traditions, birthday celebrations or even simple family rituals like Sunday dinners – they make sure these traditions are upheld.

These shared experiences not just bind them together, but also create a treasure trove of memories that everyone cherishes.

5) They practice empathy

Empathy – the ability to understand and share the feelings of others – is a powerful tool in maintaining strong, healthy relationships.

Individuals who keep their connections strong in their golden years are often those who have mastered the art of empathy.

They show genuine understanding towards the feelings and experiences of their loved ones.

They don’t just hear, they listen. They don’t just see, they observe.

They make it a point to put themselves in the shoes of their family and friends, to truly understand their perspective.

Imagine a scenario where your grandchild is sharing their excitement about a new video game or a latest trend that you might not fully comprehend.

You might not get the hype, but you show interest, you engage and you share in their excitement.

That’s empathy in action!

And it’s this empathetic engagement that helps bridge the gap across generations and keeps them connected with their family and friends.

In short, they’ve realized that while technology can help us connect, it’s empathy that truly helps us bond.

6) They cherish shared experiences

Shared experiences create strong bonds, and that’s something our older generation knows all too well.

These shared experiences provide a platform for everyone to interact, have fun, and most importantly, create memories together.

Consider this: You plan a weekend camping trip with your grandkids.

You teach them how to set up a tent, start a fire or even cook a simple meal.

This is not just about spending time together but about sharing an experience and creating memories that both you and they will cherish forever.

These shared experiences are not just about fun and enjoyment.

They also foster understanding, build trust, and strengthen the bond between you and your loved ones.

7) They are generous with their time and resources.

They are generous not just in terms of material things, but also with their time, knowledge, and experiences.

They are the ones who are always ready to lend a helping hand, share a word of wisdom, or simply be there when needed.

Think about it: when your grandchild needs help with a school project, you offer your assistance.

When a friend is going through a tough time, you offer your support.

When a family member is celebrating a milestone, you are there to share in their joy.

This generosity of spirit fosters deep bonds of trust and affection.

It sends out a clear message: “I am here for you.” And that’s an incredibly powerful message to send.

8) They nurture their relationships

At the end of the day, maintaining strong connections is all about nurturing relationships.

They understand that relationships, like plants, need constant care and attention to grow and thrive.

They make it a point to express their love and appreciation, to resolve conflicts constructively, and to always be there for their loved ones.

For instance, they don’t hesitate to express their love – be it through words, actions, or simple gestures.

They understand the importance of saying “I love you”, “I appreciate you”, or “I am here for you”.

Moreover, they are not afraid of conflicts.

They see it as an opportunity for growth and understanding.

They address issues head-on and make sure to resolve them in a way that strengthens the relationship rather than damaging it.

Wrapping up

Staying connected with family and friends as we age is about more than just remaining in contact.

It’s about nurturing relationships, creating shared experiences, and building a network of love, support, and understanding.

These habits we’ve discussed aren’t exclusive to the older generation.

They can be cultivated at any age.

The key is to start now and make them a part of your daily life.

And let’s not forget the profound words of George Washington: “Happiness and moral duty are inseparably connected.”

By prioritizing our connections with loved ones, we not only fulfill a moral duty but also create a source of happiness that can sustain us in our later years.

Take a moment to reflect on these habits. Which ones are you already practicing?

Which ones could you incorporate into your life? It’s never too early or too late to start.

After all, staying connected with family and friends as we age isn’t just about living long. It’s about living well.