The Role of Independent Living Communities in Supporting Active Aging

1. The Role of Independent Living Communities in Supporting Active Aging Did you know that active aging can have a direct impact on the health and wellness of older adults? If you have a parent, grandparent, or loved one whose age is climbing, you may be beginning to worry about their lifestyle at home. Even if they are still active and mobile, they may not be receiving enough stimulation, socialization, or engagement. With the importance of staying active, social, and engaged in life, independent living presents itself as an exceptional option for aging loved ones who are interested in remaining as independent as possible but outside of their home. In this blog, we will explore how these communities support active aging. From the services provided to the benefits they will unlock for your loved ones, there is so much to consider before making a decision. What is Active Aging? Active aging is a dynamic approach that encourages people to maximize their potential for well- being as they age across multiple dimensions. It’s an inclusive concept aimed at enabling you to engage fully in life’s opportunities and challenges. The International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) outlines seven dimensions of wellness that form the foundation of this concept:        Emotional Wellness Environmental Wellness Intellectual/cognitive Wellness Physical Wellness Professional Wellness Social Wellness Spiritual Wellness By maintaining health, activity levels, and engagement in social and physical activities, senior adults can actively age. Independent living is one care option that promotes this kind of approach to living by providing environments that support these dimensions of wellness.

2. What Are Independent Living Communities? Independent living refers to a type of senior care that provides the opportunity for older adults to live on their own and maintain their freedom while being in a community of like-minded individuals. These residences promote ease, convenience, and a sense of community. In other words, they are designed for aging adults who are still active and can manage the daily activities of living on their own. The following are the services commonly offered in independent living communities:   Communal Spaces: Socialize with friends, family, or other residents in communal areas. Everyday Maintenance: From housekeeping to laundry, there are many maintenance- style services available to make your everyday life simpler. Social Activities: A wide range of activities are planned and executed each day, ensuring there is always something to do. Daily Meals: Enjoy delicious, nutritious meals that are prepared by the community’s staff. On-Site Healthcare Providers: Have access to healthcare providers onsite, making for convenient care. Private Suites: Choose from numerous living options, depending on your unique needs, budget, and preferences.     The Benefits of Independent Living for Active Aging Social Engagement While many senior adults are comfortable and capable of living at home, they may also feel isolated and lonely. Whether this is due to friends and family members moving away or the ability to travel to social engagements, it can have a significant impact on mental and physical well-being. With independent living, the lifestyle is meant to be social and engaging. Fostering social connections is promoted every day through fun activities and group programs, such as activity clubs, day trips, and fitness classes. Physical Health Being in an environment where physical health is prioritized is essential for active aging. With access to fitness facilities, wellness programs, and outdoor spaces, your loved ones will be encouraged and able to stay physically active. The benefits of staying mobile and maintaining flexibility are plentiful, from reducing muscle soreness and deterioration to preventing accidents that may result in emergency room visits. Mental Well-Being It is unfortunately common for older adults to experience depression, isolation, and loneliness, all of which have a negative impact on their mental health. By moving into independent living, you can prevent your loved one from experiencing this! With so many planned activities and social opportunities, residents of independent living are given the chance to continue learning hobbies and exploring their interests with like-minded people.

3. Safety and Security Living at home alone can be dangerous for aging adults, especially if they are no longer as steady on their feet. If something were to happen, it could be hours before any type of support or help is requested. In this type of senior living, your loved one will be in a secure environment that is customized to the needs of seniors. Emergency services and health monitoring will ensure that if anything happens, they have the help they need right away. Peace of Mind for Families While your aging loved one may still be self-sufficient and active, family members can begin to worry about them living at home. With the freedom and autonomy associated with the lifestyle of independent living, these communities can allow your loved one to live their life and put your family’s worries to rest. Questions to Ask When Choosing a Community If you’re interested in looking for anindependent living community, but aren’t sure which one best suits your or your loved one’s needs, start with these questions:      Does it have the lifestyle that you are looking for? Are there activities or programs that you are interested in trying? Is it located near family members for easy visitation? Is there access to outdoor green spaces for you to enjoy? Does the community offer suite options that fit within your budget? Partner with CarePatrol of Denver Today At CarePatrol of Denver, we offer you and your family access to our vast network of independent living communities. This ensures that you understand what is available to you in your area and which options are best suited for your loved one’s needs. Our Senior Living Advisors can provide you with the support and knowledge to make an informed decision – at no extra expense! For more information about how we can help you find independent living communities near you, give us a call or book a consultation today. Source: https://carepatrol.com/denver/the-role-of-independent-living-communities-in-supporting- active-aging/