5 Ways Assisted Living Improves Social Health

In assisted living, you have more ways to stay physically active while enjoying the company of others. You can attend an exercise class. Take a walk around the property or sit in the garden and work on flowers in a raised bed. Attend a dance or work on your balance. Volunteer. Help set up a birthday party or holiday decoration. Join others for some music therapy and bang a drum!

The monthly calendar of events in assisted living is good for your physical health in many ways, because there’s always something going on. And, most importantly, always someone around to do it with. You will have opportunities to keep moving! It sure beats day after day on the couch watching television alone at home.

In assisted living, every day is an opportunity to engage with someone else and make a connection. And that connection has big benefits. You’re sharing opinions, building relationships, gaining a new sense of purpose, and finding new ways to enjoy life. You might learn a new hobby, such as painting or playing bridge. Sit in on a discussion of current events or reminisce with your peers about days gone by.

One of the best ways to improve social health is enjoying meals with good friends — and assisted living is great for that. Who wants to eat every meal alone when you don’t have to? Dining alone at home is boring and often leads to poor nutrition which can lead to serious health issues.

In assisted living, however, mealtimes are a pleasure. You can choose with whom to dine and enjoy lively conversation that might include sharing the day’s events, discussing specific topics, or just catching up on what’s going on. And don’t forget the great food! Most assisted living communities offer an array of chef-prepared selections that include the proper nutrients seniors need to be healthy, but even better, they are delicious.

When you add it up — the warm camaraderie, the sumptuous cuisine, and the company of friendly people who look forward to seeing you — you can see why dining together is one of the best benefits of socializing found in assisted living.

Handling life’s tougher moments isn’t easy when you’re trying to do it alone on your own. Losing a spouse, a long-time friend, or any other emotional challenge can amplify the negative effects of isolation. If you feel left on your own to handle negative feelings, your health can pay the price.

Assisted living is the perfect antidote. With caring, welcoming people around you who are in the same stage of life, with similar challenges to go through, you have a strong supportive network. They understand and can offer a listening ear that can make all the difference and is high on the list of ways to improve your social health.

Waking up each day in assisted living means you are never alone — another of the very important social benefits of this lifestyle.

Trying to stop a bad habit, or start up a healthy one? It can be hard to do when you’re on your own, without anyone around for support. In assisted living, you will find inspiration all around you.

Whether it’s finding the motivation to go to an exercise class, trying to decide if you should go for a walk, wondering if you could possibly find a way to resist dessert every night, there’s likely someone close by who can be your cheerleader.

Challenges are easier when friends are close by. Exercise is more fun when you know you’ll see good friends in class. Staying on the path to healthy aging can be a delightful journey with people who care urging you on.