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Hi! I am caring for my aging mother - she's newly retired and struggling with depression and feelings of loneliness. I am trying to figure out activities/events for my mother, but I'm overwhelmed (as I'm also caring for a new baby). She does not want to go to a senior center. Any suggestions for how to help? Is there a website that has activities that cater to folks over 65+?

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So, today, after nearly a year in retirement, I joined my local Y and went, very reluctantly to "AOA" (aka old people's) water aerobics.

I expected old folks waving their hands in the air for a few minutes. Instead, it was 50 minutes of hard core aerobic exercise with weights. I'm so sore, I can barely get off the couch. These lovely ladies (most of whom appeared to be in their 70s) helped me with the moves, brought me the "light" weights and encouraged me to come back. Geez, getting old is NOT what it used to be.
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Katsmihur Oct 2019
Congratulations to you, Barb, for taking the first step and joining the Y! I love it there and have seen how vigorous the water aerobics can be!

Suzy, I googled ‘older women’s groups’ and got sixtyandme.com. Hoping this helps.

I can certainly sympathize with you and senior center - my Mom doesn’t want to go to the one 5 minutes from her - too many ‘old people’. She’d rather hang out at the diner and eat meals out every day.

~ Blessings to you and your new baby ~
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How old is your mother? If she is "just" retired, she must be plenty " able". Why is she dependent upon you?

Has she been seen by her primary care doctor to evaluate for depression, cognitive issues and the like?

With a new baby, her needs should NOT be on your plate!
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How old is your mother? How long ago did she retire? What was her occupation? Retirement is a big adjustment! Both my mom and MIL wrinkled their noses up at doing social things with seniors because they didn't see themselves as "old ladies" ;-) My mom did eventually volunteer at the senior center and as a result, met many nice "old people" and they really valued her help. But really, she may just need some time to adjust. After retiring as an RN for 45 yrs, my mom was providing childcare for my 3 boys, then eventually carpooling them 2x a day, cleaning my house, grocery shopping, cooking dinner and walking my dog (I paid her of course). Just a thought, since you say you have a new baby, maybe she can help you more? Being a grandparent is awesome :-)
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