Maintaining social connections and engaging peers becomes more important as we age. Unfortunately, about a quarter of adults 65 and above are socially isolated, says a report by the National Center for Biotechnology Information.
Residing in a senior living community in Reading, PA, is a great way to stay active. Residents have access to engaging social activities for seniors, which improve their quality of life.
Here, we will cover the following:
- The importance of senior social engagement
- Popular social activities for seniors in Reading, PA
- How senior living communities create an engaging community
Why Social Engagement Is Vital for Senior
Social engagement for seniors is fun, but it has other notable advantages, such as:
- Improved mental health
- Better cognitive function
- Improved physical health
Seniors often feel isolated after retiring or losing a loved one, and they may face mental health issues. Participating in social programs for seniors allows them to build meaningful connections. They can share their experiences with other residents and feel they belong in the community.
Engaging in group activities provides seniors with much-needed emotional support. It lowers the feelings of loneliness and may help them maintain a more positive outlook.
Social interactions exercise the mind in the following ways:
- Learning new skills
- Recalling shared memories
- Challenging opinions and perspectives
Seniors who engage in elderly community activities have better brain function. Remaining mentally active also helps them avoid or slow down the progression of conditions like dementia.
Physical movement promotes mobility and encourages seniors to have a routine. By staying active, they enjoy benefits like:
- Better physical balance
- Reduced risk of chronic conditions
- Weight management
- Stronger muscles and bones
Popular Social Activities for Seniors in Personal Care Reading PA
When your loved one is in a community offering personal care in Reading, PA, they can engage in many popular activities. Such include:
- Group exercise classes
- Crafting and art workshops
- Book clubs
Participating in fitness activities in a group setting makes it more enjoyable. Many senior living communities in Reading, PA, offer group exercise classes tailored for elderly residents. These include low-impact activities that encourage strength and mobility while being gentle on the joints.
Arts and crafts allow seniors to express their creativity, and the activities are also therapeutic. When in a senior living community, residents can engage in activities for elderly residents, such as:
- Painting
- Knitting
- Pottery
These are great for mobility, and doing them in groups encourages socialization. Seniors also spend time with people with similar interests, making their stay fun and productive.
Book clubs provide seniors who love reading and chatting an excellent way to stay engaged. Even those who previously had no interest in books often embrace it as a new hobby.
They also get to share their views and engage in stimulating discussions. The book clubs can educate them on historical or current events, making them feel like a part of the greater society.
How Senior Living Communities in Reading, PA, Create a Supportive Social Environment
The best senior care Reading PA communities offer seniors a supportive and socially engaging environment. They will have many fun activities, making them vibrant and welcoming, especially for new residents.
The communities often encourage interactions with the following:
- Events and outings
- Holiday celebrations
- Birthdays and special occasions
A senior living community can plan regular outings to let residents explore nearby attractions. They can visit local museums to learn history and tour parks and theaters.
The community could also plan trips to local restaurants to give seniors a change of scenery. These group outings allow the residents to enjoy socializing outside their typical environment.
Holiday celebrations like Thanksgiving, Christmas, or Fourth of July bring residents together. They enjoy a family-like atmosphere and feel included in the community.
When senior living communities in Reading host such activities, they help elders who don’t have family in the area feel loved. The residents also get to start new holiday traditions or share existing ones with their friends.
Birthday celebrations and special events like anniversaries give seniors something to look forward to all year. When in a personal care community, they can mark these important events with their peers.
The staff will help them organize the events and ensure everything is in place for the big day. The host can plan the activities they find most interesting with help from friends. They enjoy more control over their occasion and feel more independent.
Tips to Help Seniors Stay Socially Active
Personal care communities in Reading, PA, can help your loved one stay socially active in many ways. However, there are other methods you can use to engage them and keep them active. Such include:
- Encouraging them to try new hobbies
- Visiting them frequently
- Contacting them often
Your loved one may be skeptical about trying new hobbies after joining a senior living community. They may be afraid they won’t learn the skill quickly or simply prefer things they are used to.
Encouraging them to try new things will help them stay socially active in their community. It allows them to discover new interests and boosts their confidence once they master a new skill.
An article by Pew Research Center shows that 73% of US adults consider spending time with family the most important thing. When your loved one is in a senior living community, visit as often as possible. Encourage them to share their experiences, and you could also ask them to meet their new friends.
Regular phone calls or video chats help your loved one feel connected and supported. Even if they’re living in a community with plenty of activities, they will still need a familiar connection. Call your loved one frequently to check up on them and show genuine interest in their new lifestyle.
Explore Active Senior Living in Reading, PA
Social activities for seniors enhance mental, emotional, and physical well-being. They improve the quality of life and allow seniors to connect and thrive in a new environment.
If you want a community offering a rich social life in Reading, PA, consider Rittenhouse Village at Muhlenberg. We provide our residents with many socialization opportunities focusing on their abilities and interests.
With our comprehensive activity calendar, your loved one will enjoy a fulfilling and connected lifestyle. Contact us for active senior living in Reading, PA.
