Staying connected with friends and family matters more than you might think. Strong social ties can reduce your risk of heart disease and help you live longer. They also help protect against depression, high blood pressure and memory loss.* Think of relationships as exercise for your body, mind and overall well-being.

But building new or stronger connections isn’t always easy. Maybe you moved, are managing health issues or don’t know where to start. That’s OK. Even small steps can make a big difference. Here are seven ways to get you started.

1. Volunteer your time and talents

Helping others is a powerful way to feel connected. Pick a cause you care about and volunteer a few hours a week. Look for opportunities at your grandchild’s school or a local library, park or food pantry. You’ll meet people who share your interests while making a positive impact close to home.

2. Join a local team

Exercise is a proven mood booster — and organized activities make it easier to meet new people. They come with built-in conversation starters and help you feel like part of a team. You might try joining a walking group, pickleball league or fitness center. 

If you can’t find a group in your community that interests you, consider starting one. Post flyers at your local community center or share your idea online to gather people with similar interests.

As an Allina Health | Aetna^® Medicare member, you get a SilverSneakers® basic fitness membership at no added cost. You’ll have access to thousands of participating locations and classes for all fitness levels led by trained instructors. This benefit can help you stay healthy, build confidence — and bond with others while you roll out your yoga mat or choose dumbbells.

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3. Participate in local meetings

Want to know what’s happening in your area? Find out by attending a town hall, school board or neighborhood meeting. You’ll learn more about your community and meet neighbors who care about the same issues. 
If you’re feeling inspired, you might even consider volunteering on a committee or running for a local position. Both can connect you with others while you make a difference in your community in a way that’s meaningful to you.
 

4. Grow with a group

Gardening is a fun way to connect with others as you soak up some vitamin D-rich sunshine — while wearing sunscreen, of course. Whether you join an established community garden or help start one, you can grow fresh produce with fellow green thumbs and even cook meals together with your harvest.

5. Schedule quality time

Staying close with loved ones doesn’t have to mean being in the same physical space. Regular phone calls or video chats can bring you together with your favorite people even if they’re far away. Schedule long-distance dates and put them on your digital or wall calendar. Doing so will help you remember and give you something to look forward to.

Mental health care is part of your plan

Your plan covers both individual and group sessions with mental health professionals. That includes psychiatrists, psychologists, clinical social workers and other providers approved by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). You can find in-network mental health professionals at AetnaMedicare.com/FindProvider. Call us at the number on your member ID card for more information.

6. Reach out for help

If you’re feeling lonely or sad, talk to your primary care provider. You can do this during your Annual Wellness Visit about how you’re feeling. They can screen for depression with the Patient Health Questionnaire, a simple nine-question survey, and help you get treatment if needed. 

Your plan also covers in-person and online therapy sessions with licensed mental health professionals. This lets you talk openly and get support in a safe space. 

Creating new connections can feel challenging at first. But remember, every conversation or shared activity is a step toward better health and happiness. Whether it’s joining an ongoing class or starting a new group, small actions add up. It’s never too late to build relationships that help you thrive.

For immediate in-person support, please call 988, the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

^*FOR MOOD BOOST: World Health Organization. From loneliness to social connection: charting a path to healthier societies. Accessed at: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/978240112360 June 30, 2025. Accessed March 20, 2026.

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. SilverSneakers and the SilverSneakers shoe logotype are registered trademarks of Tivity Health, Inc. ©2026 Tivity Health, Inc. All rights reserved. This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Health information programs provide general health information and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other health care professional. Contact a health care professional with any questions or concerns about specific health care needs. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Allina Health | Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Allina Health | Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. For more information about Allina Health | Aetna plans, refer to our website.

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