Maintaining an active social life grows difficult as people age.
It can become especially challenging for seniors experiencing early signs of cognitive decline and mobility issues. Seniors who struggle with these issues may find themselves increasingly confined to their homes.
It's important to step in when a senior finds themself in this situation. An assisted living community is a recommended solution. As isolation worsens, so do health concerns.
Research from the Center for Disease Control (CDC) found that worsening isolation is linked to the following health issues:
Families must intervene to prevent the risks above.
Learn how senior living programs are committed to improving the lives of older adults.
An assisted living community like Addington Place of Mount Pleasant offers more than a roof over one's head.
Community managers work with senior residents and their families to customize weekly lifestyle schedules to improve:
The community keeps a packed calendar of events and activities designed to appeal to every interest. Outings are also scheduled to encourage engagement outside the community, which is vital to socialization.
Along with activities, residents enjoy a high-quality dining service that serves balanced meals and healthy snack options. Seniors have access to a lovely dining hall where they can engage with fellow residents while enjoying attentive service from staff. Weekly lunch outings to local eateries are also on the social calendar.
These services are paired with an attentive medication management service that ensures seniors' social lives aren't disrupted. Family members are also encouraged to check in to ensure their loved ones are thriving in the community.
The last point speaks to the importance of regular communication with family; this part is vital for socialization. Seniors don't feel left out of the loop. Consistent communication is essential for a smooth transition to a senior living community.
Residents may use a landline or their cell service to call family members. There is also wireless internet access so that residents can talk to loved ones over video chat. Community staff members are happy to set up video chat app accounts for residents.
Seniors may communicate through:
The above apps are free to use and may be accessed via smartphones or desktop computers. Residents can socialize with multiple family members at once. These tools are also used in online learning should a resident decide to take an online course.
Creativity is an excellent catalyst for socialization. It can also be enjoyed indoors or outside in one of the community's many tranquil garden spots.
There are many ways to find creative opportunities. Within the community, residents can find weekly artistic activities on the calendar.
These activities include:
Residents may take online art classes via YouTube tutorials or online course sites like Coursera. AARP also offers live art classes through its Senior Planet OATS program.
Seniors can talk to a concierge about booking transportation to a local art museum or historical museum. Visiting family members may also visit cultural centers outside the community or talk to an activities director about museum outings.
Popular art and history museums include:
A concierge service can help residents book tickets to local theater shows at the performing arts center. Going to the theater with family and fellow residents is an excellent way to socialize and combat isolation.
Who says you have to put away your favorite games as you age?
On the contrary, playing games is highly recommended for preventing senior isolation.
Even better, games boost:
Games are a top activity in assisted living, and you'll find plenty of options at Addington Place of Mount Pleasant. Check the monthly activities calendar for daily games and clubs. Joining clubs is a great way to socialize with residents over a shared interest.
On the calendar, you'll find:
You'll also find weekly pool table games and mini golf on the calendar. These activities are great for exercising mobility skills while meeting new friends.
Weekly calendars always include time outdoors. Community managers who customize lifestyle schedules will incorporate this need, as well.
The community's garden club meets weekly. There are also garden meditation events. Gardening is a tranquil, creative activity that conditions mobility skills in seniors; residents get a decent arm and hand workout.
Residents plant everything from their favorite perennials to cherry tomatoes. They may also keep potted plants in their suites which uplifts mood.
Exercise activities are offered daily. These activities range from walking clubs to light aerobics. All fitness sessions are designed with seniors' needs in mind.
Joining a weekly fitness club improved socialization by bringing residents together with shared needs and goals.
Now is the perfect time to assess senior isolation to put preventative measures in place. Joining an assisted living community is an excellent way to discover like-minded residents with shared goals, backgrounds, and interests.
Addington Place of Mount Pleasant's activities program is designed for a thriving community of seniors. Talk to an activities director to learn more about the possibilities of this program for mental and physical wellness. Confront senior isolation before it starts!
We're part of a nationwide network of senior living communities committed to a complete approach, from senior nutrition to cozy living spaces. Our staff is trained to assist in medication management, senior transportation, and more.
Book a tour to experience our community and learn more about our amenities.