If you’ve noticed yourself or your loved one struggling to feel socially connected as you age, you’re not alone. Concerns of loneliness and social isolation are leading factors when older adults and their loved ones consider an assisted living community in Morris Plains, New Jersey. Changes in routine like retirement from a career or driving can take a significant toll on an older adult’s ability to stay socially connected.
One of the most important ways that an assisted living community can improve quality of life is through the significant enhancement of social connections. There are several ways that residents of an assisted living community in Morris Plains, NJ, such as Arbor Terrace Morris Plains, stay more socially connected.
Social connection is a key part of quality of life at any age, but older adults may find it difficult to maintain the same level of socialization they have in the past. Loneliness and isolation can take a negative toll on mental health, increasing depression and anxiety. Older adults experiencing social isolation are also at a higher risk for developing dementia or a cognitive impairment. Older adults experiencing social isolation are also at a higher risk for developing dementia or a cognitive impairment. With such an extensive impact, it becomes key that older adults have plenty of opportunity to stay socially connected as they age.
Below, we’ll share five ways an assisted living community, like Arbor Terrace Morris Plains, can deepen the social connections of it’s residents.
The staff at an assisted living community provides daily, positive social interactions. Whether it’s with the concierge team, resident assistants, or dining room servers, residents are sure to exchange friendly greetings, if not build meaningful relationships.
Having neighbors close by allows residents to make new friends with their peers, something that can be challenging with age. Residents have plenty of opportunities to make new connections, while also having the space to entertain family and friends. Residents of an assisted living community can invite loved ones to dine with them at the community’s dining room, or participate in one of the many offered programs.
Arbor Terrace Morris Plains offers a special, resident ambassador program to help new residents through the transition to their new home. This program was put in place to ensure new residents are welcomed and have peer support in establishing new connections.
For many, eating is a social experience. An assisted living communities offer restaurant style dining where residents can enjoy their meals together. Meals are served by friendly dining room staff who will also help to ensure that anyone who wants a dining companion, will have one. Enhanced social connections at mealtimes often help residents establish healthier eating habits, such as maintaining a schedule of nutritious meals.
Assisted living communities offer robust programming calendars that are thoughtfully planned to promote wellness and social connection for residents. Programs range from group fitness classes, cognitively stimulating games, opportunities for creativity, and purposeful programs connected to the great community. Residents enjoy enhanced social connection with fellow residents and the team members, as well as opportunities to engage with those in the local community through their participation. Scheduled trips to Morris Plains restaurants and visits from local schools, further enhance residents’ social connections.
Residents also have opportunities to participate in programs benefiting larger causes. This supports residents in contributing to the greater community, enhancing feelings of belonging and purposefulness. Examples include participation in the Walk to End Alzheimer’s or fundraising for breast cancer awareness.
Assisted living communities offer a senior friendly design that not only helps to keep residents safe, but also encourages socialization. From a business center with computers to connect with friends, an on-site movie theater to catch a film, or the professionally designed courtyards and walking paths, there are lots of spaces to enjoy and catch up with family and friends.
Technology can do wonders to help connect people who may live at a distance. While some older adults may struggle with technology, an assisted living community has staff who may be more familiar and can support residents. With technology, residents can have increased, meaningful connections with loved ones they may struggle to stay connected with. Through video calls, emails, and more, residents can stay in touch with those who may be outside of New Jersey.
With endless opportunities to enhance social connections, an assisted living community is a great fit for anyone looking to increase socialization. To see these features in action, schedule your tour at Arbor Terrace Morris Plains today. You can meet our resident ambassadors, see what’s on the engagement calendar, and even enjoy a meal in our dining room.