The Importance of Social Engagement for Seniors in Assisted Living Communities
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April 12, 2023If you are reading this blog, it’s likely the time has come to consider other living arrangements for yourself or an elderly loved one. It’s easy to become overwhelmed when looking at available options to age in place because it is a major change in your life. Leaving a home where you have lived for years and contemplating what items to keep and which ones to get rid of is never as easy as 1,2,3.
While it is justified to feel sadness at the thought of such a huge change in lifestyle, it is also time to consider what an amazing adventure lies just ahead! An assisted living facility offers so much more than just a “place for mom”. This tight knit community is filled with opportunities to build new lifelong relationships, take part in new activities and hobbies, and even learn new life skills.
What is assisted living?
Assisted living facilities are designed to provide a community experience for older adults, and tailored to meet the specific needs of today’s active seniors. These communities provide a broad range of services, including independent living, help with daily activities, memory care, and 24/7 assistance. This allows seniors to stay within the same community for the remainder of their lives, even if their needs change over time.
In addition to care services, assisted living communities offer a wide range of amenities such as housekeeping, laundry, dining options, spiritual gatherings, book clubs, fitness classes, day trips, holiday celebrations, entertainment, and monthly calendars filled with activities to keep seniors actively engaged with other members of their community. Residents also have access to assistance with activities of daily living such as bathing, grooming, dressing, eating, mobility, and continence as needed.
There’s so much more to an assisted living community than just a place to live. These specialized facilities offer a community experience where seniors can establish new relationships and receive care services that empower them to live as independently as possible in a safe and secure environment to enjoy their golden years to the fullest.
What are the Benefits of Assisted Living?
The better question may be, where do we start? Senior adults have spent a lifetime working and caring for others and deserve to retire in a way that promotes their physical and mental well-being. Assisted living communities offer a blend of social interaction, a productive lifestyle, safety, and support for seniors who remain largely independent but may require some daily assistance. With an array of amenities such as beauty services, communal dining, and fitness centers, seniors can enjoy a fulfilling and convenient lifestyle. Studies show that social activities and services available in assisted living communities increase happiness and improve the overall quality of life for senior adults.
There are many benefits to consider when contemplating an assisted living community for your loved one. Here are some of the top advantages:
Say goodbye to boredom! Assisted living communities provide a range of activities to keep residents engaged and entertained. These can include movie nights, communal gardens, art and music classes, card games, and book clubs.
Safety is a top priority. Assisted living communities provide quick access to medical care with trained care staff and nurses available 24/7. This makes assisted living a safer and more secure option for seniors, who may be at risk of accidents and other health emergencies living alone.
Keeps the brain functioning at its best. Assisted living facilities provide opportunities for mental stimulation with access to resources, brain games, academic activities, and technology assistance. These lifelong learning experiences keep seniors engaged and potentially lower the risk of cognitive decline.
Healthy, communal dining experiences. Assisted living communities provide all-inclusive dining, healthy, balanced meals, and knowledge about special diets. This can help seniors meet their unique nutritional needs while enjoying a social dining experience.
Let’s get moving! Physical activity is beneficial for seniors’ muscle and bone health and helps decrease the risk of falls. Assisted living offers opportunities for physical activities, including on-site classes, and provides transportation to fitness classes or physical therapy. Activity coordinators ensure that seniors exercise safely and provide supervision during classes.
Assisted living communities offer seniors more than just a place to live. They provide a community experience that promotes independence, mental and physical well-being, and social engagement.
Conclusion
An assisted living community offers so much more to active seniors than just a place to live as they age. It provides numerous opportunities for seniors to be active and engaged with others who are on the same journey, and build deep friendships that will last for the remainder of their lives.
Elderberry Healthcare was established in 1989 to serve the needs of Madison County and the surrounding communities’ senior population. Today we care for a wide variety of individualized healthcare needs. With 3 distinct levels of care, we help seniors who need minimal support in our Assisted Living; around the clock nursing care in our Skilled Nursing Unit; and Transitional Rehabilitation services for post-operative patients. Contact us today to learn more.