An estimated 20% of adults 55 and older live with some mental health disorder, like anxiety, cognitive impairment, and depression. However, this group of adults is also less likely to be diagnosed and treated for mental health issues. A senior living community can help prevent mental decline by providing opportunities for residents to stay active and social and find the fulfillment they need to thrive. Here are a few ways in which living in a senior living community can benefit older adults emotionally and mentally.
Fights Isolation
One of the biggest challenges that aging adults face is isolation. If you’re living alone, it’s much more difficult to involve yourself in activities and social outings, which can lead to significant boredom and, ultimately, depression. However, in a senior living community, you’re never alone. You can have your space when you want, but there is always something to do! From fitness classes to clubs and cafes, there are plenty of opportunities to make connections and forge friendships that will help you keep yourself from feeling isolated.
Provides Peace of Mind
With the peace of mind that comes with knowing that care is there if you need it, Holland Home allows residents to just enjoy life. While many tend to put off plans regarding the aging journey, this can often lead to more stress and worry, especially if an illness or fall occurs that would make the move more difficult. In a community, you don’t have to worry about who or how you will be cared for. The system is already in place for you.
Gives a Sense of Belonging
As humans, we’re used to being part of a community. Whether that’s our workplace, neighborhood, or family, the sense of belonging we get from these places plays an important role in our mental health. This sense of belonging, however, can start to decrease as we go through the stages of life. From becoming empty nesters to retiring, we begin to lose some of the connections we crave. Living in a community, however, allows you to create and maintain strong relationships with others in a similar life stage. Residents are able to get a lot out of this community while also being a part of and giving back to it, which produces a strong sense of purpose and belonging.
Makes for Worry-Free Living
The challenges that come with aging—from remembering to take medication to worrying about a fall or injury can cause a great deal of anxiety and take a toll on our mental health. Being a part of a community where there are always people to check in on you helps eliminate some of this stress and concern. From the moment you move in, you’ll have people looking out for you and your home. If you want to take a trip or head south for the winter, you can rest easy knowing that everything will be just as you left it when you return.
Allows You to Stay Active
Staying active has obvious physical benefits, but just as substantial are the mental and emotional benefits. Regular exercise can boost your mood, improve sleep, and help lessen the effects of depression, anxiety, and stress. At Holland Home, with workout classes and amenities like a swimming pool, pickleball courts, and walking paths, there are plenty of opportunities to stay physically active and, in turn, maintain emotional well-being.
While many people think about the physical changes that happen when we age, much less emphasis is placed on mental and emotional health—even though these areas of health directly affect our physical well-being. For example, depression can increase the risk of long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. The best way to combat mental and emotional decline while we age is to stay active, stay social, and stay engaged. Living in a senior community gives you countless opportunities to do just that, plus, provides access to care when you need it, and an entire support system right outside your door to help keep you feeling your best.