How Important is Social Engagement for Seniors in Assisted Living Communities?

A major concern for senior adults is social isolation and loneliness. Issues with health and mobility can often result in a lifestyle that becomes more and more sedentary as we age, and the elderly often find themselves spending more time in doors and alone. Multiple studies have shown exactly how adverse the effects of loneliness can be for senior adults, including an increase in the risk of anxiety, depression, and cognitive decline, and can even result in a shorter life span. It’s important to make sure your senior loved one is regularly involved in social activities to promote both mental and physical well being.

We may not always be able to find the time to provide our senior loved ones with all of the social engagement they need to thrive. Jobs, children, grandchildren, school – all of these things keep us very busy. Assisted living communities are a great option for seniors who not only need assistance with the activities of daily living, but are also in need of more social interactions.

Regular social engagements offer many benefits for seniors including improved physical and mental health, and an improvement to their overall quality of life. At an assisted living community, seniors are provided with the opportunity to participate in a wide range of social activities that cater to different interests and abilities. Seniors who enjoy more quiet and low key activities can participate in arts and crafts, board game nights, book clubs and community gardening. For those who are still quite active, activities like dance or water aerobic classes, shuffleboard, fishing, and outdoor walks will help keep them on their toes. An assisted living community offers a choice of something for everyone, regardless of how they choose to spend their time socially.

Actively socializing within an assisted living community provides seniors with the opportunity to build new friendships and discover a newfound sense of community belonging. Seniors feel more connected to their environment when they are exposed to a strong system of support and active social networking. They spend their time with others who are on the same journey at the same stage in life, resulting in relationships that can last the rest of their lives.

Some of the social activities offered by an assisted living facility may include:

Art Classes
Seniors do not need to be outstanding artists to participate in an art class. Activities like pottery and painting provide seniors with a creative outlet for expressing themselves, resulting in reduced stress and an improvement in their mental health. It is an activity that is suited for everyone, regardless of physical ability.

Music and Dancing
Music is said to be an international language. Regularly hosted music and dance events are the perfect way for seniors to socialize in a fun environment. Even seniors with limited physical abilities can enjoy listening to the music and singing along to their favorite songs.

Gardening
Gardening is probably the most popular social activity among seniors in an assisted living community. That is because it is a rewarding, relaxing, and low key activity that can be enjoyed by everyone.  It’s called a community garden for a reason! Seniors have the opportunity to work together towards something that benefits everyone and can be shared by all. Gardening is a great social activity that promotes not only social interaction, but mental and physical health as well.

Game Nights
Board games aren’t designed to be played alone, and people of all ages enjoy game nights. They are a fun and engaging way to bring us together. Board games and card games are also a great opportunity for family members to get involved in a social activity with their senior loved one because it is such a fun and rewarding activity.

Conclusion

Socialization for senior adults is vital for mental and physical wellbeing. It improves their quality of life and prevents social isolation and loneliness. At Adams Farm Living & Rehabilitation, we understand how important socialization is for our residents, and provide regularly scheduled social events to support the physical, mental, and spiritual needs of our community members.

Adams Farm’s 120 beds and Rehabilitation Suite are located minutes from the hospital and the medical office park.  We offer a warm, inviting, home-like and comfortable environment, with a commitment to meeting the wants, needs and wishes of all who walk through our doors. Contact us today to learn more.