NBR: worried about my mom

Moraki728

Hey girls..  I posted this already of the NYC board but I figured I'd ask around in case anyone has any other suggestions..

My parents are divorced.  My mom really doesnt have any friends her own age and basically my brother and I are her priorities in life.  I appreciate all of her help and I love spending time with her, but I really feel like she deserves to have some friends her own age, maybe to grab a coffee with, go out to dinner, and just relate to.  I looked on craigslist but everything seems kind of shadey or creepy.  She is NOT interested in dating whatsoever.

Does anyone know of any kind of support group having to do with divorced women, women over 50, retired women or anything like that?  Or any ideas of where to look?

TIA

TTCinOC

Have you talked to your mom about this at all?

I don't know if she's involved with a church at all but I think that's where most classes like you suggested are. 

The only other things I can think of are like craft classes at the local craft store, or if she has a dog she could find the meet-up around her for that breed. Does she play cards? My grandma plays Bunco, Bridge & Texas Hold'em with different groups around her area a few nights a week ever since my grandpa died. Around here the local high school's have a Bingo night maybe she could get involved in something like that to open the door to meeting new people. 

karaokerampergirl

You could have her try Meetup.com she can find other people with common intrests.... it's a good way to meet new people  in your area and they've got every interest, and hobbie there is on there.

Moraki728

OMG!  I just checked out meetup.com and found a group called "Queens Female Friends Age 45-65"  They have bi-monthly events like dinner, brunch, bingo, etc and the next one is a group garage sale-- one of my mom's favorite things to do!!  Thanks so much! My mom is so excited!!

DiscusCoach

Can I suggest dancing?

I go to a great dance hall in my area. I am by FAR the youngest woman there. The vast majority of people are divorced/single and in the age group you are talking about. She can sign up for a two step class and meet even more people. A lot of these groups form very strong friendships. Although most of the people I met were older (only one younger) we all have become very close and still see each other weekly. 

oregontechmom

Yeah I would suggest she pick up a hobby...something that she can find a class or group to get involved with.  My mom's really into scrapbooking.  I know they have online communities, in addition to a lot of classes and groups in some of the craft stores and whatnot.  Just try to help her find something she enjoys...that will give you guys a starting place to get her going.    Best of luck!

Moraki728

Thanks so much for all your great suggestions!  They really helped!  I was just drawing a blank...  I'm going to looking into all of these ideas.  I really appreciate it!