Fun & Independence: How Residents Stay Active in Assisted Living Communities

Today’s older adults are socially active and committed to a healthy lifestyle, and those who choose senior living over aging in place are looking for an environment where they can meet and connect with other seniors.

Studies have shown that older adults who live socially active lifestyles are physically and emotionally healthier.

Assisted living communities understand the importance of a vibrant social life and create atmospheres where residents thrive.

Many assisted living communities employ activity directors responsible for keeping residents booked and busy with various planned activities and events.

Let’s explore the types of social opportunities in assisted living communities and how a socially active lifestyle can positively impact seniors.

How a Socially Active Lifestyle Benefits Older Adults

Isolation and loneliness pose significant physical and mental health risks for older adults in the United States.

Research shows that adults who are isolated and lonely are more vulnerable to serious physical and mental health risks including:

• Stroke
• Heart disease
• Dementia
• Depression
• Anxiety

Assisted living communities take residents' health and wellness seriously and work hard to create a fun and active lifestyle.

Continuing Education Classes

Mentally stimulating activities and “brain games” improve cognitive health and slow the onset of memory loss.

Assisted living residents can sign up for foreign language, computer, and art classes, scholarly presentations, and lectures.

Volunteering & Community Service Opportunities

Volunteering and staying connected with your community give seniors a sense of self-worth and confidence.

Community organizations such as homeless shelters and food banks are always looking for help. Older adults have the life and career experience to make a positive impact.

Assisted living communities make it easy for residents to stay connected to their communities with opportunities to volunteer.

Offsite Excursions

Assisted living communities are often in active areas, and offsite activities are planned so residents can visit and enjoy everything the local community has to offer.

Many assisted living communities offer transportation to local comedy shows, shopping excursions, plays, concerts, and other local attractions.

Health & Wellness Programs

A regular fitness routine improves balance and strength and reduces the risk of falls and strains in older adults.

Assisted living communities provide an array of physical activities for residents, including:

• Group fitness classes
• Walking trails
• Fitness centers
• Yoga classes
• Dancing
• Water aerobics

In addition, most assisted living communities provide healthy chef-prepared meals with dining options in fun and social environments.

Social Events & Gatherings

Meeting and connecting with other seniors is one of the main advantages of living in an assisted living community.

Assisted living communities are filled with various social opportunities.

These communities regularly plan social events like happy hours, movie nights, book clubs, and wine tastings.

Wrap-up

As we age, it can become increasingly difficult to socialize.

Chronic illness, mobility challenges, transportation issues, and living alone can cause isolation and loneliness among older adults.

In addition to a supportive environment that encourages independence, assisted living communities are designed for socially active seniors.

Continuing education courses, offsite excursions, clubs, fitness classes, and carefully organized social events are standard in most assisted living communities.