One of the best reasons to reside in an independent living community is the life enrichment programming. From outings to favorite local destinations to art workshops, wellness classes, book clubs and more, a variety of opportunities are available every day.
At American Senior Communities, we describe our approach to creating life enrichment programming with the acronym THRIVE: Thought, Health, Recreation, Interaction, Vocation and Expression. Developed from years of research, THRIVE utilizes best practices and community resources to promote wellness in every dimension of living.
Most Popular Activities for Senior Living Residents
Like many older adults, residents in our independent living communities are interested in activities that enhance wellness, social connection and personal enrichment. Some of the most popular ones reflect these priorities and often include:
- Health and wellness activities: Fitness classes, such as yoga, tai chi, water aerobics, stretch and balance sessions, dancing classes and strength training, are usually more fun in a group setting. You’ll find some combination of these on our campuses, as well as formal and informal walking clubs. Wellness workshops are often on the calendar, too, especially for our independent living residents. Topics can range from journaling to senior nutrition.
- Artistic pursuits: The creative arts are a great way to nurture the mind and spirit. On a senior living campus, you’ll discover that these are a very popular part of the resident calendar. Communities offer a variety of classes, ranging from watercolor painting and drawing to pottery. You will likely also have a chance to try your hand at crafts such as jewelry making, knitting and other seasonal decorating workshops.
- Musical mastery: The healing harmonies of music are well-documented. They can help with everything from managing stress to helping an adult with Alzheimer’s reconnect with their past. In addition to the professional musicians a community might host, opportunities for more hands-on musical exploration may be available to residents—anything from joining a community choir or chorale to learning how to play a musical instrument.
- Lifelong learning opportunities: Research shows that challenging and exercising your brain throughout your life gives you a greater likelihood of protecting your cognitive health. At ASC locations across Indiana, you’ll find activities designed to help you keep learning and growing, including book clubs, discussions of current events, TED Talk-style guest lecture series, computer classes and trivia nights.
- Social and recreational activities: Another area of research related to healthy aging is socialization. Experts say social seniors tend to enjoy longer, healthier lives. At ASC locations, you will find chances to socialize through happy hours or mixers, game nights, holiday celebrations and movie nights.
- Nature-based programs: Spending time with nature is good for the body, mind and spirit. That’s why you’ll notice a rich variety of outdoor activities on ASC calendars. Those can include bird-watching groups, gardening clubs, scenic drives, nature walks and picnics.
- Day trips and excursions: Staying connected to the world around you is another component of healthy aging. ASC helps residents accomplish that by organizing outings to local and regional destinations, such as art museums, theaters, casinos, shopping malls and restaurants.
- Spiritual offerings: Finally, there are chances for residents to maintain their religious affiliations and spiritual connections. These include on-site services, meditation sessions and other devotional opportunities. Communities also often host support groups for a variety of needs, such as for Alzheimer’s spouses and bereavement.
Explore how YOUR life might be enriched in a senior community!
All of the programs and activities mentioned above are things you want to look for in any senior living option you’re considering, and the best way to explore and experience what is available is to visit in person. We invite you to call an ASC location near you today to schedule a time for a tour and to participate as our guest in any activities of your choice!
Find an Independent Living Garden Home near you:
Indianapolis, IN (North) – American Village Lincoln Lodge, Spring Mill Meadows, Zionsville Meadows
Indianapolis, IN (South) – Beech Grove Meadows, Rosegate Commons Assisted Living & Independent Living Garden Homes
Indianapolis, IN (West) – Brownsburg Meadows Assisted Living. Meadow Lakes
Ft. Wayne, IN – Heritage Park, Coventry Meadows Assisted Living
Lafayette, IN – Aster Place
Ligonier, IN – Avalon Village
Williamsport, IN – Williamsport Nursing & Rehab
Find an Independent Living Apartment near you:
Indianapolis, IN (North) – Allisonville Meadows Assisted Living, American Village Lincoln Lodge, The Commons on Meridian Assisted Living & Memory Care Apartments, Spring Mill Meadows, Zionsville Meadows
Indianapolis, IN (East) – Rosewalk at Lutherwoods
Indianapolis, IN (South) – Bethany Village Assisted Living, Rosegate Commons Assisted Living & Independent Living Garden Homes
Indianapolis, IN (West) – Brownsburg Meadows Assisted Living, Meadow Lakes
Lafayette, IN – Aster Place
Ft. Wayne, IN – Heritage Park, Coventry Meadows Assisted Living
Ligonier, IN – Avalon Village
Terre Haute, IN – The Commons at Honey Creek
Williamsport, IN – Williamsport Nursing & Rehab
*Independent Living options vary based on location and availability.
