Most have some preconceived notion when they hear about “senior living” – and it typically doesn’t reflect a very exciting lifestyle. In fact, many people still consider assisted living to be boring or that the residents are lonely or isolated. That may have been true in the past, but today’s senior living communities offer a robust schedule full of activities and opportunities for seniors to engage with friends and neighbors. When you are searching for a senior community for yourself or a family member, be sure to ask for the schedule of events and activities that are offered at the community. From educational classes to gourmet food tastings, the activities trends in the senior care environment have evolved into a diverse spectrum of options.
Unique and Personal Activities
Once upon a time, residences offered a static schedule of routine (and never changing) events. But those days are gone. Today’s senior communities solicit feedback from their residents and develop schedules that include activities that reflect their interests and passions. Residents may choose to learn a new musical instrument, pick up a new language – or try their hand at painting or gardening. In any given week, seniors may learn how to play a game on their iPads, make cookies with their friends, or participate in a yoga class. Social directors work hard to ensure that the calendar offers something for everyone and that every resident can choose their favorite way to spend their days.
Never Stop Growing and Learning
The old adage about not being able to teach an “old dog” new tricks couldn’t be further from the truth. Today’s older adults are more tech-savvy than ever, and their brains are still more than capable of absorbing new information. In fact, without the daily stressors of chores, maintenance, and errands, they are free to learn and grow! Seniors should seek out a residence that prioritizes cultivating mental sharpness and improving quality of life. Some communities offer introductory college courses or immersive theaters to watch travel documentaries, offering new ways of engaging with the world. Growing older doesn’t mean we stop learning – this is the best time of life to take on new challenges.
Health & Fitness
Physical activity is vitally important to everyone’s health and mental well-being, regardless of age. For seniors, however, it can radically improve their quality of life. Committing to a healthy routine requires identifying an appropriate form of exercise that brings enjoyment. Senior living residences should provide strength training classes, low-impact sports, and meditative classes like tai chi – even dance classes can provide all the exercise they need. In Florida, senior residences typically offer beautifully landscaped grounds to encourage walking with friends and family. Of course, communities need to also offer fitness options to those who live with disabilities. Residents with dementia, disabilities, or depression have reported that staying active is critical to their sense of peace and well-being, and residences will ensure that all physical needs are accommodated.
More Excursions and Engaging Experiences
While not every day can include a field trip or extravagant party, administrators at senior communities understand that activities need to go beyond just passing the time. Engaging programming is the key to assisting seniors to genuinely enjoy their retirement and cultivate meaningful relationships with the people they live with. Senior living communities should be vibrant and diverse and offer residents the opportunity to live life – from going to the theater, visiting the beach, or visiting the hottest new restaurant in town.
For every senior looking for a new home, there is a perfect residence – but finding it may be challenging. At My Care Finders, we’ve done all the research, so you don’t have to. Simply tell us the lifestyle you are looking for, and we will help you to narrow down the choices to the communities likely to work best for you and your family. Remember, our services are always free to
