Social isolation is not uncommon in senior populations, but did you know it can impact physical wellness?
Its effect on mental wellness is known, from anxiety to depression.
A study published in the National Library of Medicine shows that persistent isolation also increases the risk of:
It's important to watch for early signs of isolation before health risks worsen. Transitioning to a senior living community in New Holstein, WI is the most effective course of action in these cases.
Learn how social activities for seniors can help seniors live longer, healthier lives with purpose.
When you think about an active senior lifestyle, an assisted living community has it all. Everything from community landscaping to scheduled events contributes to senior engagement.
Prioritize this point when selecting a senior living arrangement.
Schedule a tour to get an up-close look at the following:
A tour is the perfect time to ask questions about the community's activities calendar. For example, Lakehouse New Holstein keeps a packed social calendar of events and activities. A community manager can also customize lifestyle schedules to residents' tastes and needs.
Residents will find events tailored to nearly every interest, whether it's music or personal wellness.
Social calendars are posted monthly and will typically include the following weekly events:
It's just as important to travel outside the community for engagement. Regular outings into town for lunch and shopping are also offered.
Residents can talk to an activities coordinator about an event idea. A concierge service is also available to help seniors schedule transportation for outings.
Games are the most prevalent activity on the calendar.
70% of study participants reported cognitive benefits of playing games while another 50% reported emotional improvement.
Bingo is the most popular game on the calendar. This activity brings the entire community together. However, it's not a game that requires teamwork; rather, it's played individually within a group.
Bingo is an excellent icebreaker for new residents. It can give seniors the confidence they need to join social clubs and team-building activities.
Other popular games include:
Residents who enjoy playing cards, including solo games like solitaire, are encouraged to enjoy these games outside. The community grounds are a lovely area to play a game of chess or checkers with a new friend.
Outdoors, residents may enjoy a light game of frisbee.
Other fitness activities include:
Seniors are encouraged to visit off-site areas with plenty of walking paths. These are pleasant activities to enjoy with visiting family members. Scheduled transportation is available upon request.
Areas to explore include:
Lions Playland is a wonderful way for senior residents to spend a day with visiting grandchildren. Open shelters are also available for outdoor picnics and BBQs.
Residents can also talk to their community's activities director about adding more park trips to the calendar.
The studies on the relationship between arts and senior wellness are clear.
Research indicates that consistent engagement in art is necessary for healthy aging. Creative activities are instrumental in conditioning cognitive health and mobility skills.
These activities run the gamut in assisted living communities.
On the calendar, you'll find:
Residents may also take up various activities and form groups around common interests. A knitting club is a popular example of a creative social group you'll find in an assisted living community.
Other creative groups to consider include:
Retirement is the perfect opportunity to watch movies again. Movie nights are held regularly at LakeHouse New Holstein. Residents are also encouraged to watch movies together in common areas.
The New Holstein area is also home to popular museums and historical sites. Talk to an activities coordinator about visiting any of the destinations below:
Residents may also take classes outside the community for educational enrichment. Local museums regularly host talks and interactive experiences for the public. Seniors may also volunteer as museum docents if the opportunity arises.
Seniors may also enroll in online classes through platforms like AARP's Senior Planet and Coursera. The latter, for example, even lets seniors earn a bachelor's or master's degree at an extremely affordable price.
AARP's Senior Planet OATS program is designed specifically for senior enrichment.
These classes are offered live through platforms like Zoom. Residents can meet fellow senior students and build community online; seniors can also join senior groups through sites like Facebook.
The staff at Lakehouse New Holstein is on hand to help residents set up necessary online accounts for these activities. They can also set up video chat technology for residents who want to talk to family members face-to-face online.
A senior living community in New Holstein, WI, marks the start of a new chapter for seniors experiencing the early stages of social isolation. Talk to a community manager about the ideas above on your tour. Research more studies to discover the benefits of joining an assisted living community for socialization.
Our community is part of a nationally recognized network of senior living communities. Our staff is trained in everything from personal care to senior nutrition to provide a 5-star assisted living experience.
Schedule a tour or contact us now to talk to an expert.