Choosing the Right Community: Assisted Living Social Programs

Written By: Discovery Senior Living
Choosing the Right Community: Assisted Living Social Programs

Being social is important for our mental and physical wellness regardless of our age. However, it becomes more challenging for people to socialize as they age due to living alone and having limited transportation. According to the National Poll on Healthy Aging, around 34% of adults over 50 reported feeling isolated.

Assisted living social programs give residents of senior living communities the chance to connect with others. They can explore new hobbies, make new friends, and receive continual support from those around them. This access to senior social programs is a component of their overall personalized care plan.

This blog will discuss the types of assisted living social programs you can expect when you or your loved one move into a community. We'll also discuss the benefits of these assisted living services.

Understanding Assisted Living Social Programs

Many senior living communities offer assisted living social programs to enhance the quality of life of their residents. The activities are designed to do the following:

  • Improve their overall health
  • Enhance their quality of life
  • Boost their cognitive function

These communities offer numerous types of activities and events. This ensures there is something available for every person's interests. Some categories these programs may fall into include:

Many assisted living communities hire full-time activities directors to coordinate residents' social calendars.

Mentally Stimulating Activities

Intellectual activities are key for fostering mental stimulation. They can also improve memory and cognitive function. Residents can have access to these types of programs, including:

  • Brain-training exercises
  • Book clubs
  • Memory-related programs, such as puzzles and games
  • Guest speakers

These activities are intended to cater to different cognitive abilities and interests. This ensures that every resident can benefit and participate in the mentally stimulating activities.

Invigorating Physical Activities

Being active when you're a senior provides you with numerous benefits. Some of these include:

  • Improved sleep quality
  • Reduced blood pressure
  • Decreased anxiety
  • Lowered risk of heart disease

Examples of physical activities that may be offered in a senior living community are:

  • Tai chi
  • Stretching
  • Walking
  • Yoga
  • Pilates
  • Barre

Regular exercise can provide residents with a sense of accomplishment. It can also help them maintain their overall health.

Outdoor and Social Activities

Not all senior living programs need to be indoors. Many senior living programs take residents not only outside, but into the greater community. Some types of activities might include:

  • Excursions to museums, local attractions, and parks
  • Outdoor games, nature walks, and gardening
  • Outdoor gatherings, farmer's markets, concerts, and plays

Participating in recreational activities gives residents a sense of exploration and adventure. They'll also have the chance to connect with other community members.

Factors to Consider When Evaluating Social Programs

Not all assisted living social programs are created equal. Some senior living communities offer basic activities while others are more extensive. A few things to keep in mind when looking at the offerings at various communities include:

  • The range of options
  • Frequency of activities
  • Balance of indoor and outdoor programs

Resident Input and Personalization

An exceptional senior living community will consider its residents' opinions and feedback. You should look for communities that connect regularly with their residents to see if they're enjoying what's being offered to them in social programs.

This could include tailoring programs to the interests of their current residents. Another option would be to have a resident on the activities committee. Residents can give staff members opinions on how others like what's being offered and if any changes should be made.

Integration With Wellness and Health Programs

While residents should have the freedom to pick and choose what they want to take part in, they need to be encouraged to participate in a wide array of programs. This includes both mentally and physically stimulating activities.

Benefits of Social Programs in Assisted Living Communities

Social activities don't have to be complicated. They can include anything from having dinner with friends to attending a community gathering. Let's talk about some of the advantages of an extensive social program in a senior living community.

Increased Emotional Health

Being social can prevent feelings of loneliness and isolation in seniors. According to Lines for Life, around one in four adults over 65 report feeling isolated.

Social activities are effective at doing the following:

  • Improved mood
  • Creating connections with others

Concerts, lectures, and classes are great places for seniors to gather with others. Not only will they get a mood boost, but they'll be entertained at the same time.

Improved Immune System

A common side effect of being lonely and not being socially engaged is a weakened immune system. A sense of purpose and belonging can lead to the production of healthier immune cells. Seniors can also manage their stress levels more easily, which gives their immune system a boost.

Promotes Positive Relationships and Interactions

Having a robust social activity program allows seniors to have more opportunities to build relationships. They'll also have friendly interactions with each other while doing something they're all interested in.

These connections can result in meaningful friendships. This can create a sense of satisfaction.

Better Cognitive Function

Socializing and participating in activities allows seniors to keep their memory skills sharpened and intact. Keeping up with engaging conversations can help seniors build connections in their minds. This can improve their cognitive function.

In addition to preventing cognitive decline, social activities can also lower the risk of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. While memory loss is a normal part of aging, seniors can participate in programs that push them mentally without leaving them feeling frustrated.

Find an Assisted Living Community in Bellefontaine, OH

Assisted living social programs should take priority when evaluating potential senior living communities as other factors. Socialization and being active affect all areas of our health. You should ensure that social programs are at the top of your list when looking for an assisted living community in Bellefontaine.

If you're looking for one of the best senior assisted living communities in Bellefontaine, look no further than Campbell Place Assisted Living. We offer wellness and social programs that allow our residents the chance to thrive.

Reach out to our office to learn more about our senior health activities and to schedule a tour.

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