When planning a move into a retirement community, people often think of the seemingly big factors that need considered: financials, logistics related to care providers, designating powers of attorney or other legal decisions, maybe even downsizing or selling a home. While these are weighty decisions, there is another sneaky priority that should also be addressed; something many seniors and their families place on the backburner: the emotional and mental toll a move into a senior living community may take on everyone involved.
The hidden dangers that can go unnoticed are the real fears that accompany a move: fear of an identity shift, fear of missing out, fear of boredom or loneliness. That’s where creative activities come in – but not in just the bingo, card playing kind of ways (although two very popular activities for residents on our campuses!). But, other activities that are also meaningful, purposeful and make a difference in a resident’s overall health.
“Staying ‘busy’ doesn’t necessarily mean being constantly occupied,” explained Melanie Long, Dynamic Living Director at Country Meadows of Frederick, Maryland. “Health and happiness can be found when residents are doing something they love and maybe even trying something new and maybe out of their comfort zone. It’s these experiences that make a difference.”
When social activities in retirement communities are engaging, they help preserve identify, unlock a sense of purpose, keep the brain and body sharp, and foster connection with neighbors. That’s where unconventional hobbies and experiences come in.
For example, on Melanie’s campus at Country Meadows of Frederick, one of the most popular resident groups is the Trailblazers-a group of residents who go to local parks and mountain trails to experience nature, explore, while also improving their strength, balance and mobility.
“The Trailblazers are inspiring,” beamed Melanie. “With every hike, I see residents test themselves, go a little further than we did last time, and smile at every tree and beautiful flower that we pass. For our first time hikers, the act of getting on the bus and giving it a try is a big win. We welcome and celebrate anyone up for trying something new.”
Other unexpected social activities in retirement communities
The Trailblazer group is an out-of-the box way that Country Meadows has been able engage residents outside of the campus walls and encourage their adventurous spirits. The schedules at all our campus communities are full of experiences and happenings that make each day exciting.
Learn something new
We understand that there is comfort in consistency and having a structured schedule. But, what if you try something new and love it? Whether it’s learning photography, painting, dancing, picking up a musical instrument that has been gathering dust in the basement, or even attempting to learn a new language, new experiences welcome challenges, boost confidence and spark curiosity. The resident starts to ask: “what else am I capable of?”
Become a “regular”
After the move into a senior living community where everything is seemingly taken care of or provided for, it can be easy to stay on campus full-time. While that may be what a resident needs for health reasons, we encourage residents to stay active and engaged in their neighborhoods and continue doing off-campus activities they did before a move. Maybe that is continuing at the local fitness center or walking group. Or, maybe it’s making an intentional plan to return to a favorite diner or coffee shop-residents should become/continue to be a regular in another location that brings them joy and fellowship. If a resident is no longer driving, this can still be accomplished with some of the scheduled off-campus social activities in retirement communities such as bus trips and off-campus meals at restaurants.
Volunteer in small but meaningful ways
Not everyone wants a packed social schedule but are still looking for meaningful ways to contribute and give back to their neighborhood or campus community. At Country Meadows, our campuses have resident ambassadors who serve as volunteers to welcome new neighbors and show them the ropes as they get settled into the campus. While the investment of time is minimal, they make a big impact in helping a new neighbor feel welcome and comfortable. Some other volunteer ideas that support community initiatives and provide a sense purpose without being overwhelming include:
- Feeling crafty: Use your knitting or crocheting talents to make blankets, booties and or hats and donate them to a local hospital for newborns.
- Have some time: Donate some time at a local food bank to pack boxes for individuals and families facing food insecurity. Or, contact your local Humane Society to show some to your furry neighbors.
- Enjoy working with children: Reach out to the local high school to see if they need a ticket taker or usher at an upcoming sporting event. Or, establish a pen-pal program with a local elementary school.
- Looking to stay involved in societal issues: Consider supporting voter registration drives or participating in local government committees that rely on volunteers to help bring change. This could look like assembling mailers from the comfort of your home or staffing a booth at a community fair.
Social activities in retirement communities are rooted in growth
If there is one takeaway from this blog post, it is that life in a senior living community doesn’t have to slow down. It can actually be fuller, more productive and more peaceful when a resident is harnessing their time and energy to explore their passions, use their gifts and talents to help others, and take on new experiences that may challenge them physically, mentally and emotionally. In this next stage of life, building in time for connection and purpose is critical.
Our recommendation: based on the learnings from this blog, build your own meaningful weekly schedule-a full and fulfilling routine that also brings you joy. Such as, a Monday meal at your “regular” spot; Wednesday walks with neighbors; and Friday volunteer time. Take the weekend to recharge or make Sunday dinner plans with family that live nearby.
Remember: The goal isn’t busyness; it is about structuring activities that foster curiosity and connectedness. Having something to look forward to each week is not a bad trade-off either!
Looking for a senior living solution that supports your interests and goals? We are Here to Help!
Social activities in retirement communities are not one-size-fit-all, which is why our trusted advisors get to know each resident and their family and can help personalize your experience touring our campuses. When you speak to our team, let them know what activities you or your loved one is interested in and they will be sure to introduce you to residents with similar interests or even make sure a desired activity is happening at the time of your visit. We can’t wait to meet you!
