Maintaining a healthy lifestyle as we age is more important than ever. Today’s seniors are living longer and healthier than ever, partly due to advances in modern medicine as well as the fact that they know how vital living a healthy lifestyle can be. Staying well as we age helps improve our bodies, minds and souls.
Wellness means much more than simply eating right and exercising often- although of course, these are very important aspects! Wellness is defined as “not only the absence of disease, illness or stress, but the presence of purpose in life, active involvement in satisfying work and play, joyful relationships, a healthy body and living environment, and happiness”.
Healthy Aging and Senior Wellness
Today’s assisted living communities recognize the importance of residents maintaining overall wellness. At American Senior Communities, we have regularly scheduled events and activities at all our locations to keep residents engaged across all the dimensions of wellness, no matter what their health needs may be.
The eight dimensions of wellness and how they can be so important to seniors’ healthy aging are:
- Social: Developing a support system and meeting new people who share your interests is vital to healthy aging. Seniors are often at risk of isolation, which can lead to depression and other mental issues. Staying connected through social activities will help improve your quality of life.
- Physical: Regular exercise can help seniors improve their balance and mobility and even decrease illness and the impact of some chronic conditions. Exercise is also key to helping seniors avoid falls, which are the number one cause of accidents among the elderly.
- Intellectual: Continuing to find ways to expand your skills and knowledge throughout your life is helpful to keeping your mind active and fit, and can help with memory issues and overall brain function. Join a book club, challenge yourself with puzzles and games, and attend cultural events to keep your mind healthy.
- Emotional: Feeling well is an important part of staying healthy. Studies have found keeping a positive attitude can even help lower some health risks! Becoming involved socially and staying active can boost your mood and keep you connected to loved ones.
- Environmental: Staying active by getting outdoors for activities like gardening and involving ourselves in community events as often as possible can play a major role in our wellness. If you’re in an environment that makes you happy, you’ll feel more comfortable, inspired and engaged in life.
- Occupational: Finding a way to stay productive is important at any age. Retired seniors can get enrichment from past careers through sharing their knowledge by consulting. Or, consider volunteering to stay connected and give back to your community.
- Financial: When we retire, we want to make sure we are satisfied with our current financial situation and that our futures will be secure.
- Spiritual: Interacting with others who share your beliefs and finding a connection to your inner values helps expand your sense of purpose and give more meaning to your days. Having a sense of peace can make it easier to get through any of those more difficult times.
For more information about American Senior Communities, please visit www.asccare.com.
