How Onsite Therapy is Beneficial For Assisted Living Communities
January 24, 2023Assisted Living – More Than Just a Place for Mom
March 14, 2023Loneliness and social isolation are a serious concern for senior adults. Numerous studies have shown the adverse effects loneliness can have on seniors including an increased risk of depression, anxiety, cognitive decline, and even a decrease in their life span. Ensuring that your senior loved one stays involved in social activities is vital to both their physical and mental health.
The fact is, however, many of us lead extremely busy lives. It’s not always possible to provide the social interactions our senior loved ones need in order to thrive. An assisted living community is a great option for seniors who not only need assistance with daily living activities, but for those who are craving (or lacking) social interactions.
Regularly engaging in social activities provides numerous benefits for seniors including improved mental and physical health, and their overall quality of life. An assisted living community provides a wide range of options for seniors that cater to different abilities and interests. Many seniors are still quite active at this age and enjoy more physical activities like outdoor walks, dancing, or water aerobics classes. Others may enjoy quieter, more low key activities like book clubs, gardening, arts and crafts, or board game nights. Regardless of how they choose to spend their time socially, an assisted living community offers a choice of something for everyone.
Another added benefit of socialization within the community is the opportunity it provides for seniors to establish new friendships and a newfound sense of community belonging. This support system and social network is important for helping seniors feel more connected to their environment. They share experiences with others who are on the same journey and have the opportunity to build new relationships that can last for the rest of their lives.
Some of the social activities offered by an assisted living facility can include:
Gardening
Gardening is likely the most popular social activity available in any assisted living community. It is a relaxing and rewarding activity that can be enjoyed by seniors of all abilities. It’s called a community garden for a reason because it gives seniors the opportunity to work towards something together that can be shared by all. Gardening is not only a great way to promote social interaction, it also helps improve the physical and mental health of seniors.
Music and dancing
Music is an international language. Implementing regular music and dance events is an excellent way to keep seniors engaged and provides them with a fun social activity. Even those with limited abilities can enjoy listening to the music and singing along to their favorite tunes.
Volunteer programs
Many assisted living communities provide opportunities for seniors to volunteer within the facility or the surrounding community. There are many seniors who love the feeling of giving back and are interested in volunteering. It is a great way for seniors to stay engaged and feel a sense of purpose.
Art classes
Art classes are great for helping seniors improve their mental health and reduce stress, while promoting social interaction. Art classes, such as painting or pottery, provide seniors with a creative outlet for expressing themselves.
Game night
People of all ages enjoy game night because they are a fun and engaging way to bring us together. A variety of games including card games, board games, or puzzles can be a great way to keep seniors engaged and provide them with a fun and rewarding social activity. Not only that, it provides an activity that family members can take part in as well.
Conclusion
Keeping seniors in assisted living engaged in social activities is essential for promoting their mental and physical health, improving their quality of life, and preventing social isolation and loneliness. At Elderberry Healthcare, we understand how important socialization is to the happiness and wellbeing of our residents. With regularly scheduled social events and outings, we work to ensure that our members thrive within our community.
Elderberry Healthcare was established in 1989 to serve the needs of Madison County and the surrounding communities’ senior population. 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.