Social Opportunities to Improve Senior Wellbeing

Maintaining self-sufficiency as we age is an important goal and essential to a senior’s health and well-being. We value the ability to provide for ourselves, take care of our own needs, and do so without depending on others. However, the fact that we all need to rely on help and support from others during different seasons of life is undeniable.

When personal health, happiness, or safety is compromised in pursuit of preserving independence, seniors can put themselves at risk, especially when neglecting social connections, which research has shown to be critical to supporting a senior’s health and longevity. 

In this article, we’ll look at the many social opportunities available in a senior living community and examine how these important connections can increase independence and improve senior well-being.

When Self-Sufficiency Can Bring Negative Outcomes

The following habits or behaviors may be indicators that a senior is inclined to compromise health, happiness, or safety in pursuit of preserving their independence. Do any of the following signs sound familiar? 

• Opting out of active social engagements because of mobility concerns
• Foregoing regular shopping trips or outings because they have become increasingly burdensome. 
• Changes in meal habits and choices suggest cooking/meal planning is a challenge.
• Canceling appointments because of transportation limitations/concerns.
• Missed medications or signs of inaccurate dosing.
• Declining offers to visit with family to avoid conversations surrounding health, independence, or safety.

Holding on to independence can be limiting when seniors make choices that create habits of isolation and avoidance, meaning that much-needed social opportunities become less of a priority. When this happens, it may be time to consider the lifestyle benefits of a senior living community.

Social Opportunities That Support Independence

Community living provides a unique home environment for seniors looking to maintain independence while still prioritizing self-sufficiency and essential social connections. The list below details a few of the many opportunities that promote a healthy, active, and engaged life while promoting overall well-being.

Fitness, Health & Wellness – A wide variety of fitness classes, health resources, and wellness routines are available to senior living residents from the comfort of their homes. These can include offerings such as strength training, yoga, balance, flexibility, and cardio classes. Other amenities like wellness centers, personalized instruction, specialized equipment, community pools, walking paths, nutritional coaching, and sports and outdoor recreation may also be available to residents.

Cooking & Dining – Dining together with others can be the highlight of the day for many seniors, but a beautiful kitchen space can be equally exciting, especially for those inspired to continue cooking at home. Chef-prepared meals, seasonal menus, unique dining venues, freshness and variety, and exceptional service are the hallmarks of senior living dining. With endless options and accommodations for individual preferences, cooking and dining in a senior living setting can be joy-filled and satisfying.

Education & Lifelong Learning – Educational opportunities for lifelong learning abound in senior living communities. These can include monthly lecture series and presentations on topics of interest, self-studies, university partnerships, and educational programs of all kinds, ranging from history and technology to spirituality and motivational living. Instructional programs that promote brain health, cognition, and memory, and learning and applying technology are also of great importance.

Outings – Outings of all kinds are offered to residents without the hassle of coordinating personal transportation. Trips to nearby attractions, restaurants, events, places of interest, and favorite museums, theaters, parks, and shopping venues are scheduled regularly for residents to take advantage of. Travel outings provide fitting opportunities to meet new neighbors, make friends, and share memorable experiences. 

Cultural & Creative Arts – Residents have opportunities to learn and enjoy new or longtime hobbies, a variety of creative arts projects, and cultural arts programs, events, activities, and performances. Some programs may be hosted by the community (painting, knitting, woodworking, gardening, specialty crafts, floral design, etc.), while others include outings to venues like pottery studios, theaters, concert halls, and community centers which provide a wealth of offerings for different tastes. 

Gatherings & Events – Scheduled gatherings and events take place daily and throughout the week, ranging from parties, socials, and happy hours to impromptu get-togethers, meet-and-greets, and all kinds of resident-initiated small groups, family functions, and friendly visits. 

Clubs and Programs - Weekly clubs and programs for those who enjoy fitness, cards and games, books and movies, discussion groups, billiards, golf, crafting, nature and the outdoors, drama, music, sports, and much more can be found. These offerings provide opportunities for sharing common interests and meaningful social interaction while contributing to increased independence and a sense of belonging.

Spirituality & Nature – Senior living communities support spiritual life with opportunities for connecting to a sense of purpose through religion, nature, or faith practices. Multi-faith and non-denominational groups and services, transportation to local places of worship, prayer and support groups, holiday remembrances and reflections, and bible studies are a few examples. Beautiful indoor and outdoor spaces can be enjoyed privately or in community with others and used for quiet reflection, meditation, and relaxation.

Volunteerism & Community Leadership – A multitude of volunteer and community leadership opportunities abound in senior living communities. While some residents may volunteer by knitting blankets for those in need, some may enjoy serving meals for the homeless, reading at local elementary schools, assembling care packages for veterans, leading spiritual support groups, or even serving on the community’s resident council. Senior living residents are invited to share their expertise, talents, skills, and passions with the community in a way that helps them feel productive and purposeful, especially when it involves intergenerational connections.

A Lifestyle of Connection AND Independence

Ultimately, a senior living lifestyle can empower even the most self-sufficient seniors to realize the benefits of community living in maintaining independence. With so many personalized and community-centered options, seniors can make time for cultivating friendships, connecting over shared interests, and experiencing a vibrant, purposeful life every day.

To learn more about Edgemere’s relationship-centered social opportunities, curated activities, and organized programs that promote an active, independent lifestyle, visit their website or contact us to schedule a personal tour.