In the United States today, life expectancy is at an all-time high; the average American can expect to live to 78 years old. A 65 year-old man can expect to live another 17 years, while a 65 year-old woman can expect to live another 20 years. This means older adults are using their increased longevity to stay involved in the workforce longer, engaging in their communities and taking part in all kinds of activities, from spending time with family to volunteer work.
While many aging Americans choose to age in place in their homes, more and more are realizing the benefits senior living communities can provide to the healthy aging process.
Senior Living Communities and Healthy Aging
Senior living communities are designed to help residents stay active physically, mentally and socially. Many aging adults are considering moving to these communities while they are still active and independent, because they are aware of the numerous benefits these communities offer when it comes to healthy aging.
What are some of the ways senior living communities help promote healthy aging? Well, here are just a few:
- Planned social activities. Staying socially engaged as you age is so critical to overall quality of life. When seniors are isolated in their homes, depression can become a real concern. Social connections help seniors stay active and mobile, and can even slow the rate of cognitive decline. Senior living communities promote social engagement among residents through a wide variety of planned events and activities.
- A variety of fitness classes or wellness programs. Physical activity is important for everyone, but especially for seniors who are concerned with healthy aging. Programs like American Senior Communities’ New Energy Wellness, for example, provide opportunities to improve senior wellness on a variety of levels, from improving posture and balance to reducing the risk of falls.
- Intellectual stimulation. Seniors can become especially susceptible to boredom when left alone to their own devices. Many senior living communities provide not only social and physical activities, but also opportunities for lifelong learning. Guest speakers are often brought in to do lectures, and many communities offer book clubs, art classes, computer training, and much more.
- Nutritious meals. It can be difficult for a senior to eat proper meals, because cooking for just one can be challenging. Many senior living communities offer three meals a day, and those meals are specifically designed to residents’ health needs.
- Less stress over the little things. Keeping your stress levels in check is vital to healthy aging. In a senior living community, you won’t have to worry about maintaining a yard, plus most offer assistance with household tasks. Transportation is also provided, easing the worry some seniors have about getting behind the wheel.
- Improved family relationships. Not only will the senior’s stress be reduced, but family caregivers will also feel less of a burden. Knowing their loved ones are safe and receiving just the right amount of care provides families peace of mind, and spending time with together becomes more about enjoying quality time than caregiving duties.
For more information about American Senior Communities, please visit www.ASCSeniorCare.com.
