Throughout history, mealtime has been as much about socializing as refueling. As we grow older, though, many of us find that those occasions when we dine with others - whether at home or out on the town - are fewer and farther between. Eating with only the company of the television set can lead to loneliness and even health problems, notes Leonila Herrera, a dietitian at Advocate's Bethany Hospital in Chicago. "People who eat every meal alone may adopt poor eating habits, like skipping meals or eating more high-fat, heat-and-eat foods," says Herrer a.

The solution? Promise yourself that once a week, you'll fill your house with the laughter of friends and relatives-along with the gurgling of a nice pot of stew or your favorite pasta sauce.

Herrera suggests these ideas for fun dining dates:

• Plan weekly lunches or dinners with friends.
• Attend a church or community-sponsored meal.
• Host Sunday dinner for your kids and grandkids. Have everyone bring a dish and a game to play after dinner.
• Make lunch dates with grandchildren.
• Host a summertime barbecue. You'll have as much fun planning as partying!

Finally, remember to enjoy yourself. Avoid spending the entire time in the kitchen. Do the cooking earlier or even the night before, and save the dishes for later. That will give you lots of time to have fun!