Seniors Embrace Spirit of Love at "Singles Mixer

Stoneridge Creek senior living community in Pleasanton celebrated its unmarried residents by hosting a “singles mixer” on Valentine’s Day.

Nearly 100 residents mixed, mingled and danced the night away at this year’s event. Resident Joyce Nichelini is a Hospitality Club member, and one of the estimated 18 million Americans age 65 or older who are single. The 80-something-year-old says Stoneridge Creek is a great place for single seniors.

Since moving into the community a year ago, she’s been involved in several events and clubs.

As part of the hospitality committee, she welcomes other single residents to Stoneridge Creek. She makes sure that they have a place at the “singles table,” so they’re able to meet new people and make new friends. In fact, at fun events like the Valentine’s Day mixer, sparks have flown between several couples at the community, and they’re now dating.

Research shows older adults who regularly participate in social activities have a 40% reduced risk of developing dementia, compared with those who were not socially engaged.