How to Make Friends in an Independent Living Community

Learning how to make friends in an independent living community can feel exciting and scary at the same time. For adults with IDD, supportive friendships help them feel safer and more confident. Relationships can turn a building into a real home and help your adult child practice independence in everyday life. This page offers simple, realistic ways to build connections through daily routines and community activities.

Quick Guide to Making Friends in an Independent Living Community

You make friends in an independent living community by joining independent living community events, spending time in shared spaces, and starting simple conversations. Encourage your adult child to try fun activities for disabled adults that match their interests. Over time, familiar faces can become trusted friends.

Below are 3 simple ways to action this:

1. Get Involved and Be Present in Community Life

Showing up regularly is one of the most powerful ways to build friendships. When your adult child is present, others have more chances to notice them and connect.

Encourage your adult child to:

• Attend independent living community events such as game nights or movie nights. They can also try fitness classes or craft clubs that feel comfortable.
• Join interest groups like gardening or walking groups. Art or music clubs can support creativity and create natural conversation.
• Volunteer with other residents to support events or shared projects that matter to them.
• Spend time in common spaces, such as the dining room or lounge, instead of staying in their room alone.

2. Be Proactive and Kind in Everyday Interactions

You do not need a big personality to make friends. Small, steady steps can open doors.

You can coach your adult child to:

• Use simple conversation starters like “Hello, I am [Name]. Are you new here?” or “Mind if I sit with you?”
• Make meals social by sitting with different people and inviting someone to join their table.
• Ask open questions about hobbies or favorite community events, then listen with care.
• Look for new residents who seem unsure and offer a friendly hello.

Remind them that it is okay to move slowly. Every small interaction counts.

3. Practice Patience, Positivity, and Ask for Support

Deep friendships rarely happen overnight, especially after a big move. It helps to:

• Be patient with the process and remember that slow progress is still progress.
• Use small nonverbal signals like smiling, gentle eye contact, and regular greetings.
• Ask for help from family, staff, or a trusted peer to attend events together when nerves feel high.

How Covenant Can Support Your Adult Child’s Social Life

At Covenant, friendship and connection are part of how we support independence and purpose. Our residential and supported living programs, along with community-based services, help adults with IDD join activities, form friendships, and feel at home. 

Learn more on our services page here: covenanttoserve.com/services/.

Take the Next Step Toward Community and Independence

If you are ready to explore a more social and supported living option, we are here to walk with you. Download our Supported Living Guide to learn how to create a safe and connected life for your adult child.