It is a well-known fact that as people age, they often withdraw from others, whether it be because of health issues, not wanting to be a “burden” on others, or simply think they are too “old” to make any positive or lasting changes. Many older adults may become anxious, depressed, and lonely as they age, and may begin to simply give up on life, choosing to isolate and “stay out of the way.”
There can be a loss of “purpose” as people get older, as their kids are grown and living their own lives, they may be retired from a lifelong career, and diminishing physical abilities may keep them from doing things they love.
Feeling at home in a retirement community can help your loved ones see that there are still people who love and care for them and want them to succeed. People think that living at a retirement community is a sign they can’t do things for themselves, but that is far from the truth.
Retirement communities offer a unique opportunity to get involved with campus events, classes and other learning opportunities. There are many ways to have a sense of belonging at Heather Glen and families can help their love ones get engaged with all the goings-on.
- Step out of your comfort zone. This could mean saying hi to a new person at a meal time, or introducing yourself to another resident during a fitness class or hobby group, inviting someone over for dinner or anything else you may think of that helps you get your loved out of their comfort zone.
- Try something new. A great part of retirement is some of the freedom that comes with it, where your loved one can grow even more as a person and try something they’ve been putting off for a while and nurture their own wants and needs. Whether they want to pick up and read a new book, listen to a new musical group or get into gardening, there’s options for that!
- Find a hobby or look for a club you may be interested in. If your loved one has or had a hobby they’ve loved doing their entire life, why not have them join a club about it and get involved? Whether they’re into art, reading, gardening or more, helping them find a group to belong to can help provide them a learning opportunity as well as helping them feel validated by other group members and gives them a chance to socialize and gush about their interests. Joining a group in a hobby that they may potentially be interested in could help them expand their circle and stay cognitively sharp and constantly learning as well.
- Attend a social luncheon or event. We offer a multitude of activities on campus for our residents that are safe and there are always staff around that can help your loved one feel fulfilled and help them make friends. Whether it’s an art class, or fitness class tailored to any ability, you’re bound to find something your loved one will enjoy.
At Heather Glen, we are always hosting enrichment activities, classes, and social events for our residents! If you want to learn more about what we offer and come by for a tour, check out our contact information here.
We look forward to seeing your loved one!