How to Get Involved in Your Senior Living Community

Moving to a senior living community can be a significant life adjustment. Many seniors may feel intimidated and out of place as they try to navigate this new environment in a community of strangers, especially if they’ve been living alone or are not used to social interaction.

Getting involved in your community is essential for meeting, connecting with others, and building relationships with peers.

Being an active member of the community can enrich your daily life, improve your well-being, and create lasting impressions with those around you.

If you’re wondering where to start, here are some practical tips for getting involved in your senior living community.

1. Have a Friendly Attitude

Meeting people is the easiest way to get involved in your senior living community. Having a friendly disposition is the best way to make new friends. A simple smile and a hello show other residents that you’re approachable.

Introduce yourself to people and show a genuine interest in them. Ask about their experiences in the community and what activities they’re involved in.

2. Participate in Community Events

According to the National Institute on Aging, the number of older adults age 65 and older is growing. Many of these seniors experience social isolation and frequently feel lonely, which can make them more susceptible to health problems such as heart disease, depression, and cognitive decline.

One significant benefit of moving to a senior living community is the abundance of opportunities to meet and connect with others. These communities are designed to promote and facilitate social interaction. When joining a community, make sure to check the calendar for upcoming activities and events.

Most communities offer a variety of activities and social events, including:

• Happy hours
• Movie nights
• Lectures
• Shopping excursions
• Trips to local restaurants and cultural events

3. Join or Lead a Club

Take the opportunity to learn something new while meeting other residents. Senior living communities offer a variety of clubs, classes, and educational opportunities, including book and travel clubs, as well as art, cooking, and computer classes.  

Consider signing up for a class or sharing your knowledge and talents by starting or leading a special interest group.

4. Dine In Social Areas

Today’s senior living communities offer a variety of delicious chef-prepared meals and dining experiences. Get out of your apartment and join other residents in the formal dining room each night for dinner.

If you’re looking for something less formal, enjoy a coffee in the café, a juice or light breakfast after a fitness class, lunch by the pool, or cocktails in the bar.

5. Volunteer

Most senior living communities provide opportunities for residents to volunteer in the local area. You can sign up to help serve the homeless, assist at a women’s shelter, or work with the Humane Society.

Volunteering your time and talent is not only rewarding, but it also allows you to connect with other residents and engage with people in the local community.

6. Participate in Health & Wellness Classes

Health and wellness are a significant part of the senior living lifestyle. Many communities offer wellness programs, walking clubs, fitness, yoga, meditation, and nutrition courses. These are great ways to improve your health while staying active and social.

7. Get to Know the Staff

The staff in your senior living community play a vital role in your daily life. Make an effort to learn their names and don’t hesitate to ask them for support and advice when you need it.

Building relationships with the staff will help you navigate the community and can give you the confidence to get more involved and meet other residents.

Attend New Resident Orientations

New resident orientations are a great way to learn about the community, meet staff members, ask questions, sign up for activities and events, and, most importantly, connect with other residents who are just as eager as you are to make new friends.

Wrap-up

Getting involved in your senior living community offers numerous opportunities to connect with other residents. Whether you sign up for a club, participate in an activity, share a meal, enjoy a friendly chat, or take a group fitness class, these experiences can create a sense of belonging and purpose.