Assisted living is a great way for seniors to gain independence while also being surrounded by help and support. This can be a great way to foster emotional and mental well being as an individual gets older. Another way to enhance quality of life as a senior is to strive to stay active. Being active can improve physical, mental, social, and emotional health. Keep reading this blog to discover simple but effective ways for seniors to stay active in assisted living.
Walks
Walking is an extremely simple exercise that can bring a plethora of benefits to an individual. This can be enjoyed as a solo activity or it can be done with others as a way of socializing. It is a great way to get outside and keep the body moving every day. It can also bring mental clarity and be a means to destress from day to day life.
Gardening
Many assisted living facilities have garden beds, flowers, and other plants surrounding the building. Residents can do things such as watering or trimming the plants. This can help them feel accomplished and confident in their abilities, while gaining some exercise. It is also a great way to get outside and feel the sunshine, which can do wonders for overall health.
Low Impact Exercise Classes
A great option for staying active is to join a class or find a physical activity that they enjoy. These can be low impact workouts such as yoga, water aerobics, or simple strength exercises tailored to the senior’s specific needs. This can help with strength, mobility, and flexibility that tend to deteriorate in later years. Finding a group of people to do these with can also provide a sense of community for those involved.
Weekly Social Activities
Many assisted living facilities host weekly activities that residents can take part in. They may not be mandatory, but attending at least a few every week can help seniors foster connections with others and stay active in their environment. These can include bingo nights, arts and crafts, dinners, and more.
Mental Stimulating Games
Physical activity is crucial for enhancing well being in assisted living, but staying mentally active is just as important. Mental sharpness tends to decrease with age, so participating in mentally stimulating games or tasks can help improve it tremendously. This can be done through reading, learning a new language, or hobbies such as knitting. Engaging in activities that require an individual’s hands can help improve the mind-to-muscle connection.
Volunteering
Assisted living facilities typically provide volunteering opportunities for their residents. This can include making blankets or helping bake cookies for the community. This is a great way to stay active and help residents feel like a part of a bigger purpose.
Conclusion
Staying active is a crucial part of creating a life residents love while in assisted living care. This can create a sense of community and purpose while promoting healthy living. When one aspect of an individual’s health improves, all the others tend to follow. Look for senior living near me to find resources that can foster all of these ways to remain active.