There are many reasons your senior loved one might resist the idea of moving to assisted living. They may not wish to leave their family home that holds so many memories, and they may be afraid that moving to assisted living means losing their independence. They may even fear feeling isolated or abandoned. However, most seniors find moving into an assisted living facility a life-affirming and positive change. So many of the benefits of this type of senior residence are tied to the concept of community and its significant impact on a senior citizen’s quality of life.
The lifestyle at a
How Community Impacts Quality of Life
Many seniors have grown accustomed to the serenity and simplicity of living alone, and they may have convinced themselves that it is the best way to live out their lives. While some individuals enjoy solitude to some extent, human beings need personal contact and interaction.
Everyone needs a support network of friends or family, especially senior citizens. Sadly, many older adults notice that opportunities for social gatherings are diminishing – whether because they no longer drive or they are losing some mobility. The death of a spouse or close friend can cause seniors to draw into themselves and avoid conversation or interaction. But humans are created with an innate need to share life, experiences, and emotions.
An active social life is, of course, possible while living alone. However, for most seniors, an assisted living facility can provide meaningful advantages to those seeking more social engagement. These may include:
- Once moving to a senior residence, mundane home repairs, and upkeep is no longer a concern. There is no need to clean floors, wash dishes, or mow the lawn. All property maintenance is taken care of by community staff, freeing up each day to meet people and get to know them.
- Many seniors feel isolated in their homes and may be intimidated by arranging rides to see friends or get to scheduled events. But in assisted living, you can meet with people just by wandering down the hallway! Mealtimes and a social calendar are specifically designed to promote socialization and friendships. Residents are surrounded by potential friends, all of whom would love to make a connection.
- An assisted living facility provides a wide range of enriching activities – whether attending classic movie night, participating in a fitness class, or joining the community poker tournament. There are typically excursions for shopping, dining, or running errands – and may include trips to art museums, theaters, or more. Community life offers daily opportunities to remain engaged with others and stay active.
- Cultivating meaningful social ties is integral to preserving mental and emotional well-being. Living alone can result in overwhelming emotions such as isolation or loneliness for many older adults. However, social contact boosts mood and gives a senior a renewed sense of purpose.
Longevity and Health in Assisted Living
Finally, you may be surprised to learn that being in a community environment can help your senior live longer.
Loneliness is a significant risk factor for compromised physical health – those who feel isolated and alone often experience more high blood pressure, heart disease, obesity, and compromised immune systems. Loneliness also contributes to a loss of cognitive function associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s. However, the right assisted living facility can inspire your senior loved one to enjoy a new and meaningful phase of life.
When choosing a suitable senior living facility for your loved ones, call My Care Finders first. Our services are FREE OF CHARGE to families and provide practical, expert advice and advocacy. Call today to schedule an appointment and learn more about how we can help.
